Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended a Naga Indigenous Wrestling demonstration in Senapati district on Monday (November 9), where he urged communities to preserve their traditional sporting practices and cultural heritage, strengthen inter-community relations and work collectively to restore lasting peace in the state.
At A Glance
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Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh calls for greater recognition and promotion of indigenous sports, including Naga Indigenous Wrestling (Pyacha) and Meitei Mukna.
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Representatives of 25 communities participated in the wrestling programme organised by the Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur.
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The Chief Minister highlights the role of traditional sports and cultural activities in promoting unity, harmony and lasting peace in Manipur.
The Chief Minister appealed while attending a demonstration of Naga Indigenous Wrestling, popularly known as Pyacha, at the Astro Turf Ground in Senapati district on Monday. He compared the traditional Naga wrestling form with Mukna, the indigenous wrestling style of the Meitei community.
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Khemchand Singh said every community in Manipur has its own traditional sporting practices. He emphasised that these indigenous forms deserve wider promotion to protect the state’s diverse cultural identity.
Manipur CM Highlights Importance of Traditional Wrestling
The Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur (SDWAM) organised the programme in Senapati, a hill district predominantly inhabited by the Naga community.
The Chief Minister said his visit aimed to promote Naga indigenous wrestling and draw greater attention to the region’s traditional sporting practices.
He observed that Manipur’s cultural diversity represents an important strength of the state. According to him, preserving indigenous sports and traditional practices would help future generations remain connected with their cultural roots.
CM Recalls Childhood Interest in Martial Arts
Sharing his personal association with martial arts, Khemchand Singh recalled practising Thang-Ta, the traditional Meitei martial art, during his childhood.
He also spoke about how Bruce Lee influenced his interest in martial arts. During the 1970s, while studying in Class IX, he watched the film Enter the Dragon. The performance left a deep impression on him and inspired him to take up Taekwondo.
His association with the discipline continued over the years. Recently, the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF) conferred on him the title of Grand Master 9th DAN in Traditional Taekwondo.
GTTF President Grand Master Jun Lee presented the title during the inaugural ceremony of the First Manipur State Poomsae Taekwondo Championship 2026. The championship took place at Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal.
Manipur’s Indigenous Martial Arts Have Global Potential
Reflecting on the importance of preserving traditional martial arts, the Chief Minister said his understanding of indigenous practices had deepened over the years.
He referred to China’s famous 36 Chambers of Shaolin as an example of how traditional martial arts can attract international interest. People from different parts of the world visit the institution to learn about and conduct research on its martial arts traditions.
Khemchand Singh said Manipur’s indigenous sports and cultural heritage also have considerable potential to attract wider recognition.
He stressed that traditional sporting disciplines should receive greater encouragement so that they can develop beyond their existing community-level reach. Promoting these practices, he added, would help preserve the state’s cultural legacy.
Participation of 25 Communities Sends Message of Unity
The Chief Minister highlighted the participation of different communities in the Senapati wrestling programme.
He said Manipur is home to 36 communities, all of which contribute collectively to the state’s identity and development. He expressed happiness that representatives of 25 communities had come together for the wrestling event.
Khemchand Singh described their participation as a positive message of unity and peace. He said cultural and sporting events provide opportunities for different communities to come together and strengthen mutual understanding.
The gathering also reflected the importance of protecting shared cultural spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can participate in traditional activities.
CM Urges Elders to Work for Lasting Peace
The Chief Minister also emphasised the need to restore and sustain peace in Manipur.
He urged the present generation of elders to take every possible step towards bringing back peace and ensuring that it continues for future generations.
Khemchand Singh said elders have a collective responsibility to create a peaceful environment where young people can grow and prosper. He stressed that sustained efforts from the present generation would remain essential to securing a better future for the state.
Birsa Munda Remembered on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
The programme also included the observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in honour of legendary tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda.
The occasion paid tribute to his contributions to the country’s tribal communities and recognised his role in India’s freedom struggle.
Organisers also distributed sports equipment and kits among players representing Senapati district. The initiative aimed to encourage young sporting talents and provide support to emerging players.
The Chief Minister further inaugurated an exhibition football match between Senapati FC and Hills Academy in the Under-15 boys’ category. The match highlighted the importance of encouraging sports participation and nurturing young talent.
MLA Poanam Brojen, Commissioner (Home), the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, other government officials, teachers and students attended the programme, among others. (Edited by Enewstime Desk)