Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh wants to protect the state's traditional sports and cultural practices. He made the plea on Monday, November 9, at an Astro Turf Ground demonstration in Senapati. The Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur hosted the event, which showcased Naga Indigenous Wrestling, or Pyacha.
The Chief Minister compared Naga wrestling to the Meitei form known as Mukna. Both deserve more recognition. He says these sports are vital. Manipur houses 36 different communities. Remarkably, 25 of those groups participated in the wrestling demonstration. This show of unity aims to build peace. Elders must now work to secure that peace for the next generation.
Singh draws from a deep personal history with combat. He practiced Thang-Ta as a boy and took up Taekwondo after watching Bruce Lee in the 1970s. The Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation recently named him Grand Master 9th DAN. He believes Manipur could draw global interest just like the 36 Chambers of Shaolin in China. "The present generation of elders must make every possible effort to bring back peace and maintain it for the sake of future generations," Singh said.
The visit also marked Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, honoring freedom fighter Birsa Munda. Officials handed out gear to local players. The Chief Minister also kicked off an exhibition football match between Senapati FC and the Hills Academy under-15 boys. Local leaders later met with the Chief Minister at the Deputy Commissioner chamber. Representatives from the BJP Senapati unit, Naga People’s Organisation, the Senapati District Students’ Association, and the Senapati District Women’s Association aired their grievances. MLA Poanam Brojen and other top government officers also attended the events.
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