Revival of Indigenous Games Begins in Imphal

Imphal, May 21, 2026 (DIPR): The five-day “Revival of Indigenous Native Games” (RING) 2026 began on Thursday at Mapal Kangjeibung under the joint organisation of the Manipur Upliftment Centre and National Yuva Cooperative Society.

The event aims to celebrate indigenous games and living traditions that reflect the spirit, history and cultural identity of communities across generations, while empowering youths through sports and cultural heritage.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, Naorem Praveen, Commissioner of Youth Affairs and Sports, said Manipur is internationally recognised for its rich legacy of indigenous sports and native games. Referring to traditional sports such as Sagol Kangjei, Khong Kangjei and Yubi Lakpi, he stated that these games are deeply connected to the culture and identity of the people.

He stressed the importance of proper training, institutional support and early exposure for children to preserve and promote indigenous games. He also highlighted the tourism potential of Sagol Kangjei and called for dedicated training spaces and inclusion of native games in educational curricula.

The speakers noted that Thang-Ta, the traditional martial art form of Manipur, is now featured in national school championships. Youths were encouraged to channel their energy through sports and cultural activities, while stressing that such initiatives should be organised annually to safeguard native games and traditions.

Delivering the inaugural address, Pradip Phanjoubam, Senior Journalist and Editor of the Imphal Review of Arts and Politics, emphasised the urgent need to preserve Manipur’s traditional games as an integral part of the state’s sporting and cultural heritage.

“Our indigenous games are deeply connected to our identity and sporting culture. If we fail to preserve and promote them through collective and sustained efforts, there is a real danger that these living traditions may one day survive only in museums,” he remarked.

The programme also highlighted the contributions of pioneers in traditional sports, stating that their leadership plays a vital role in inspiring wider participation and awareness among younger generations.

Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, recipient of the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award, expressed willingness to share her expertise for youth development, stating that proper guidance could help talented youths build a better future.

Among others present on the dais were Lourembam Bikram Singh and eminent artist Lourembam Bedabati Devi, along with renowned sportspersons.

The celebration features demonstrations of indigenous sports and martial traditions including Thang-Ta (Huyel Langon), Arambai exhibition, Mukna Kangjei, Sagol Kangjei and Kom Archery exhibition.

The later phase of the event will be held at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, where competitions and demonstrations of Thang-Ta, Kang and Mukna will take place simultaneously at the Indoor Stadium and Kangsang. The programme will also include competitions in Yubi Lakpi, Thouri Chingbi, Mukna and Kangjei.

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