Manipur’s indigenous sports have received renewed attention after Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called for collective efforts to preserve and promote the traditional sporting practices of the state’s diverse communities. Highlighting the cultural importance of Naga Indigenous Wrestling, also known as Pyacha, and the Meitei wrestling form Mukna, the Chief Minister said traditional sports deserve greater recognition, encouragement and support to ensure their survival for future generations.
Khemchand Singh made the appeal on November 9 while attending a demonstration of Naga Indigenous Wrestling at the Astro Turf Ground in Senapati district. The programme was organised by the Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur (SDWAM) and brought together participants from different communities.
Manipur CM Highlights Importance of Traditional Sports
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that every community in Manipur has its own distinctive sporting traditions. He said these practices represent an important part of the state’s cultural identity and should receive greater attention.
Drawing parallels between Naga Indigenous Wrestling and the traditional Meitei wrestling form Mukna, Singh observed that both sporting traditions deserve recognition and promotion.
He said preserving these practices would help protect the cultural heritage of different communities while providing younger generations with opportunities to understand their traditional identities.
The Chief Minister also expressed happiness over the participation of 25 communities in the wrestling programme. Noting that Manipur is home to 36 communities, he described their collective participation as an encouraging example of unity and mutual understanding.
According to him, such initiatives can strengthen relationships among communities and promote a positive environment across the state.
Naga Wrestling and Meitei Mukna Deserve Recognition
Naga Indigenous Wrestling, popularly known as Pyacha, is an important traditional sporting practice associated with Naga communities. Its demonstration in Senapati provided an opportunity to showcase the wrestling tradition and encourage greater public interest in its preservation.
Similarly, Mukna holds an important place in Meitei cultural heritage. The traditional wrestling form reflects the community’s long-standing sporting practices and continues to represent an important aspect of its cultural identity.
By highlighting both traditions, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of giving different communities equal opportunities to preserve and showcase their cultural practices.
The promotion of indigenous sports could also create opportunities for cultural exchange, sporting development and wider recognition of Manipur’s heritage.
CM Recalls Childhood Interest in Martial Arts
During the programme, Khemchand Singh also spoke about his personal connection with traditional martial arts.
He recalled practising Thang-Ta, the traditional Meitei martial art, during his childhood. He also shared how watching martial arts legend Bruce Lee in the film Enter the Dragon during the 1970s influenced his interest in Taekwondo.
At the time, he was studying in Class IX. The film inspired him to pursue martial arts, eventually developing a long association with Taekwondo.
The Chief Minister was recently conferred the title of Grand Master 9th DAN in Traditional Taekwondo by the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF).
The recognition was presented by GTTF president Grand Master Jun Lee during the inaugural function of the first Manipur State Poomsae Taekwondo Championship 2026 at Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal.
Singh said his experiences over the years had strengthened his understanding of the importance of preserving traditional martial arts and cultural practices.
Manipur’s Cultural Heritage Has Global Potential
Referring to China’s famous 36 Chambers of Shaolin, the Chief Minister highlighted how traditional martial arts can attract international interest.
The Shaolin tradition draws visitors from different parts of the world for learning, training and research. Singh suggested that Manipur’s traditional sporting and martial arts heritage also has considerable potential to receive wider recognition.
He indicated that greater efforts to preserve local traditions could help introduce these practices to audiences beyond the state.
Such promotion could also encourage young people to take an interest in their cultural heritage while creating opportunities for traditional athletes and practitioners.
Sports Promotion Linked to Unity and Peace
The programme also carried a message of unity and peace. Singh stressed that the present generation, particularly community elders, must work collectively to restore and sustain peace in Manipur.
He said elders have a responsibility to create a peaceful environment where younger generations can grow and prosper.
The event also marked Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, commemorating tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda and recognising his contribution to the country’s tribal communities.
As part of the programme, sports gear and kits were distributed among players representing Senapati district to encourage young sporting talent.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated an exhibition football match between Senapati FC and Hills Academy in the under-15 boys’ category.
The event was attended by MLA Poanam Brojen, the Commissioner (Home), the Senapati Deputy Commissioner, government officials, teachers, students and other invitees.
During his visit, Singh also met representatives of the BJP Senapati unit, Naga People’s Organisation, Senapati District Students’ Association and Senapati District Women’s Association. The representatives raised various public grievances and issues requiring government attention.
The Chief Minister’s appeal has brought renewed focus on the importance of protecting Manipur’s diverse sporting traditions. Greater encouragement for traditional athletes, community participation and opportunities for younger generations could help ensure that these practices remain an active part of the state’s cultural identity. Preserving these traditions is not only about protecting sporting history but also about recognising the diversity that contributes to Manipur’s shared heritage.
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