Tributes Pour In for Manipuri Musician Chongtham Vikram Singh Following Tragic Death
Final Farewell to a Musical Icon
Chongtham Vikram Singh’s remains returned to Imphal on Wednesday (Photo: AT)
Imphal, Sept 9: The remains of Manipuri musician Chongtham Vikram Singh were brought back to Imphal on Wednesday, just two days after he passed away from injuries sustained in an alleged attack in New Delhi. His arrival at Imphal International Airport was met with a large crowd.
Following this, his body was taken to his home in Thangmeiband, Imphal West, where family, friends, fellow artists, and members of the local film industry gathered to pay their respects before his final rites were conducted at Khoyathong in Imphal East.
After the ceremony, Singh’s younger brother, Chongtham Vivek, addressed the media, expressing the family's desire for justice while also respecting the ongoing investigation into the assault. He stated, “We respect the due process of the investigation. However, the family is waiting for justice. We do not wish to politicize this matter. Let this be the last incident of its kind.”
His comments come amid a wave of sorrow following Singh’s death and increasing worries regarding the safety of individuals from the Northeast in other regions of India.
Renowned Manipuri singer H. Sadananda, while honoring Singh, called for strict measures against those accountable for the incident. He remarked, “We can never forget how he died. Respect for us comes only when we achieve medals for the country. Unity among the Northeast people is essential.”
Numerous artists, musicians, and members of the film community also visited Singh’s home to pay floral tributes and support his grieving family.
At 54, Singh was a key figure in Manipur’s rock music scene, having been part of bands like Phoenix and Eastern Dark. He later relocated to Delhi, where he served as a music educator.
His untimely death has deeply affected Manipur’s artistic community, with colleagues remembering him not just as a musician but also for his significant role in advancing the State’s contemporary music landscape.
Meanwhile, the investigation by Delhi Police is ongoing, with seven individuals arrested in connection to the alleged assault, including a minor.