Indigenous Games of Manipur

Posted Date: 05-May-2011	Category: Sports
Author: Suresh Mayanglamba	Member Level: Silver	Points: 15

In this article, I will give brief information about a few games which originated from Manipur. By nature, Manipur is a sports loving state. In national and international arena, Manipur has produced so many talents. But, many people in India may not be still aware of the rich sports heritage in Manipur, the Jewel of India. It's the time to know and feel proud of this sports hub of India as an Indian.

The fact that Manipuris love sports is proved by the never-say-die spirited sport stars from Manipur. Every year many players from the state bring medals for the country and the state. Manipur topped the medal tally among all the states in the recently organized National Games in Jharkhand. There are reasons for this. Manipur has been associated with sports since the mythological era, according to the historians.
Manipur has contributed some indigenous games to the World of Sports. There are five well known indigenous games in Manipur- Sagol Kangjei (Manipuri Polo), Yubi Lakpi (Manipuri Rugby), Hiyang Tannaba (Boat Race), Mukna (Manipuri Wrestling) and Thang-Ta (a form of martial arts).
The game, Polo, played across the globe was derived from the Manipuri game Sagol Kangjei by the British in the 19th century, after which they modified and changed the name. The Manipuri Polo is played by fourteen players (seven in each side) who mount and ride ponies usually of four to five feet in height. The players are fitted with a stick made of bamboo root. The players will hit the ball to score goals by mounting on their gallop. Still Manipuris are playing Sagol Kangei in their original styles as well.
Yubi Lakpi is a coconut snatching game. 'Yubi' means 'coconut' and 'lakpi' means 'snatching' in Manipuri. Each side will have seven players whose bodies are fully applied with oil, just to make them difficult to snatch the coconut. It is generally played in a big field.
Hiyang Tannaba means boat racing. It is held in the month of November at Thangapat, a small lake in the heart of Imphal. The boats in this game are called Hiyang Hiren and are believed to be associated with spiritual powers. The rowers wear traditional dresses in this game.
Mukna, a form of wrestling is very common in Manipur. It is a contest between two male athletes of their strengths.
Thang-Ta is a form of Manipuri martial arts. 'Thang' means 'sword' and 'Ta' means 'spear'. The fighter uses a sword or a spear and with his/her skillful techniques, fights the opponent. This martial art has been passed down from generation to generation since the ancient time to protect and combat during the war times. But now, this game has been considered as a challenging and energetic game and it is our sole responsibility to protect this ancient game.

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Indigenous Games of Manipur

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