July 19, 2004

Shillong, July 19, 2004: The 170th Death Anniversary of U Tirot Sing Syiem was commemorated with pomp and grandeur in the State on July 17, 2004.

At Mairang, 45 kilometres from here, a public meeting was organised by the Nongkhlaw Syiemship under the Chairmanship of Mr. Steamer Manik Syiem, Acting Syiem of Nongkhlaw. The function was attended by Ministers, officials of Mairang Civil Sub-Division and people from all walks of life.

Meghalaya Home Minister, Mr. H R D Lyngdoh, while speaking on the occasion as the Chief Guest, reminded the struggle and stiff resistance of Tirot Sing against the British and the sacrifices made by him for the welfare of the Bri U Hynniewtrep, adding that his patriotism was recognised not only in Meghalaya but also in India and throughout the world, thus earning a place in history.

Meghalaya Minister of Food & Civil Supply, Mr. M N Mukhim, speaking as the Guest of Honour, stressed that the spirit of patriotism of Tirot Sing should be honoured by all, and in this connection, he appealed to all Syiems, Headmen, Politicians and the public in general to follow the footsteps of Tirot Sing so as to reflect in their life the priceless quality of courage, dedication and hardwork for the overall development of the State.

Others speaking on the occasion included Mr. Boldness L. Nongum, Parliamentary Secretary of PWD (Roads) and MLA of Mairang and Mr. Prestone Tynsong, Chief Executive Member, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council.

The other highlights of the day included wreath laying ceremony at the monument of Tirot Sing, Mairang, Marathon race, Penalty shoot-out, Volleyball, Football match, Archery, Cultural and Traditional music presented by Seng Khasi, Pyndengumiong, Mairang, songs from students of Tirot Sing Memorial College, St. Thomas, Mairang Presbyterian and Langtor Higher Secondary School.

As part of the commemoration, at Nongpoh, the final match of the 1st U Tirot Sing Football Cup Tournament, organized by the Dienjat Football Club, Mawdiengum, ended at NSCA Mini Stadium, Pahamsyiem, where the Tang-La-Nang-La-Sarong (TLNLS) Sports Club defeated Ksan Rngiew Sports Club by a solitary goal.

Speaking as the Chief Guest on the occasion, the local MDC and Executive Member, KHADC, Mr. C. B. Syiem, lauded the Club for single handedly organising the Tournament, which he hope would boost the sportsmen of the District. Urging upon the players to remain dedicated to their sport, he hope that they could one day represent their Club and the District to bigger tournaments in the State and outside.

Adding his views as the Guest of Honour, The Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi District, Mr. W. L. Lyngdoh, appreciated the efforts of the Club in organizing the tournament to remember the great patriot, U Tirot Sing Syiem. Congratulating the zeal of the finalists, he exhorted their talents and hoped that many young and promising players would come up from the District in a near future. Mr. Lyngdoh also donated a sum of Rs. 1000/- to the Club as a part to support its activities.

The Tournament ended with distribution of trophies, cash prize and certificates to the teams and players.