NO RETREAT is a deeply researched narrative history of Major Paona Brajabashi, one of the most remembered military heroes of Manipur, and the dramatic events of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.
Written by SB Luwang and published by Omega Offset Printers, the book reconstructs Paona’s life, military service, the political crisis within the Manipur royal court, the British assault on Kangla, the three-column invasion of Manipur, and the historic resistance at Khongjom.
Rather than simply repeating popular legends, the book carefully distinguishes between documented evidence, later historical accounts, family tradition, Khongjom Parva, and disputed interpretations. It also examines important questions such as Paona’s uncertain birth year, his military rank, his role in the fighting at Kangla, his shared command with Major Chongtha Mia, and the continuing debate over whether the decisive Khongjom fighting should be dated to 23 or 25 April 1891.
The book also explores what happened after the battle—the occupation of Kangla, the trials and executions of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, the transformation of Paona’s family remembrance into Khongjom Day, and the development of Khongjom Parva as a powerful tradition of historical memory.
Highlights
Comprehensive biography of Major Paona Brajabashi
Detailed account of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891
Political background of Surachandra, Kulachandra and Bir Tikendrajit
Paona’s documented role during the fighting at Kangla
Detailed reconstruction of the Battle of Khongjom
Major Paona and Major Chongtha Mia’s shared command
Analysis of British and Manipuri military forces
Examination of the 23–25 April Khongjom date controversy
History of Khongjom Parva and family commemoration
Chronology, glossary, battlefield guide and historical appendices
Source-conscious treatment of legends and disputed claims
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