Imphal, August 6 – The Imphal Peace Museum commemorated its sixth anniversary today, aligning with the global observance of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Day through a poignant ceremony that reinforced the universal values of peace, reconciliation, and intercultural solidarity.

Organized jointly by the Nippon Foundation, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, and Manipur Tourism Forum, the event saw the participation of eminent figures from Japan and India, including H.E. Ono Keiichi, Japan’s Ambassador to India; Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, Chief Secretary of Manipur; and Prof. W. Chandbabu Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Dhanamanjuri University.
A Reflection on War and Reconciliation

Ambassador Ono Keiichi, in his keynote address, revisited the brutal Imphal campaign of World War II, acknowledging the immense suffering endured by soldiers and civilians. Quoting, “War takes everything and gives nothing in return,” he honored the fallen at the India Peace Memorial and expressed Japan’s profound gratitude to Manipur for its enduring compassion.

He reiterated Japan’s commitment to repatriating the remains of Japanese soldiers when feasible and praised India’s tradition of observing moments of silence in Parliament for Hiroshima-Nagasaki victims. Highlighting the museum’s role in fostering reconciliation, he referenced the late PM Shinzo Abe’s "Heiwa" (Peace) calligraphy—displayed prominently—as a symbol of Indo-Pacific unity. He also emphasized Japan’s ongoing collaboration in India’s development, particularly in the Northeast, through infrastructure and cultural exchanges.
A Site of Transformation and Hope

Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, Guest of Honour, described the museum as a “living testament to transformation,” where a once-bloodied battlefield now serves as a sanctuary of learning and reflection. He inaugurated the Harmony House and a special exhibition of Japanese wartime artefacts, calling them milestones in preserving history and humanity.

Reflecting on the 1945 atomic bombings, Dr. Goel honored the 200,000 lives lost while celebrating the survivors’ resilience and moral courage. “Their forgiveness and strength remind us that peace is not passive—it demands compassion, unity, and unwavering commitment,” he remarked, urging collective action toward a harmonious future.
Symbolic Tributes and Renewed Pledges

The ceremony included floral tributes to war heroes, a symbolic release of fish into the museum pond (representing harmony with nature), and a two-minute silence for the departed. Attendees also witnessed the formal acceptance of books under the READ Project and explored the museum’s exhibits.

The event concluded with a shared resolve from Indian and Japanese delegates to uphold the museum’s legacy and deepen bilateral ties, ensuring that the lessons of history continue to inspire global peace.