Senapati / Ukhrul (Manipur), 10 July (ANI): Manipur is a vibrant hub of both traditional and modern sports, nurturing top athletes while proudly preserving its rich heritage of indigenous games and martial arts. Among its standout traditions is Naga wrestling — a powerful blend of strength, skill, and community spirit passed down through generations. In this intense, full-contact sport, wrestlers grip each other’s loincloths, striving to bring their opponent down above the knee. But it’s more than just a contest — it’s a living celebration of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. The indigenous wrestling is more than a sport — it's a vital thread in the region’s social and cultural fabric.It brings communities together while nurturing discipline, perseverance, and leadership among the youth. These traditional events see enthusiastic local participation and play a key role in preserving the area's rich heritage and customs. Manipur not only preserves its traditional wrestling roots but also champions the spirit of football by nurturing young talent. In Ukhrul, we met 33-year-old Ngaraipam K Stone, a former defender for Suchdeva Delhi Football Club, who is shaping future stars through the Haokok United Football Academy in his native Hungpung village. Founded in 2023 after his retirement, the academy now trains over 70 children — including 10 girls — aged 8 to 18. By offering free coaching to girls, Ngaraipam is empowering his Tangkhul community and strengthening grassroots sports.
