{
  "type": "article",
  "title": "Manipur CM stresses safeguarding and expanding traditional martial art Thang-Ta",
  "summary": "The All-India Inter-University Thang-Ta Championship has officially kicked off in Imphal, bringing together hundreds of university athletes from across the country.",
  "content": "The historical and cultural significance of Thang-Ta, the traditional martial art of Manipur, has been strongly highlighted, with calls to preserve and promote the discipline as an essential pillar of the region's rich heritage and glorious past.\n\nNational Championship Kicks Off in Imphal\n\nThe official inauguration of the All-India Inter-University Thang-Ta (Men & Women) Championship 2026-27 took place at the Indoor Stadium, located within the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal. Technical officials, players, and participants arriving from various parts of the nation were welcomed to the event, which aims to provide university-level athletes with a major platform to display their athletic skills and help propel the traditional fighting style forward.\n\nPersonal Journey and Inspiration Behind Martial Arts\n\nReflecting on early personal experiences, it was shared that training in martial disciplines took place during 1975, 1976, and 1977. The release of the Bruce Lee film Enter the Dragon in 1978 served as a massive inspiration, prompting a journey away from Manipur to learn Taekwondo. It was admitted that there was never any anticipation that the native martial art of Thang-Ta would eventually scale such remarkable heights.\n\nExpressing Gratitude to Gurus and Organizers\n\nSincere appreciation was extended to the revered Gurus who have dedicated themselves to fostering Thang-Ta, alongside acknowledgment of the committed efforts driven by the President of the World Thang-Ta Federation. Special thanks were also directed to Daljit Singh Choudhary, Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University, for successfully organizing the prestigious competition that unites university athletes nationwide.\n\nHistorical Roots and Valor in Battle\n\nUnderscoring the deep historical roots of traditional combat skills, references were made to the Seven Years Devastation between 1819 and 1826, a period when Manipur endured Burmese occupation. Forefathers during that era demonstrated immense courage to fight and reclaim their homeland. Mention was likewise made of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, wherein local warriors fought valiantly against the British by utilizing their native martial expertise, including Thang-Ta.\n\nParticipant Turnout Across Universities\n\nThe ongoing championship has drawn strong participation, welcoming representatives from 24 universities spread across nine states. A total of 252 students, consisting of 146 men and 106 women, are actively competing in the events.\n\nWhat this means for you\nThe championship provides a major boost to regional martial arts, creating fresh engagement opportunities for university athletes across the country.\n\n• Across India: University students nationwide gain a structured platform to engage with indigenous fighting disciplines. This national exposure helps preserve traditional sports in modern academics.\n\n• In Manipur: Local athletes receive direct encouragement while training infrastructure and community interest in native arts get reinforced. The gathering also highlights regional cultural tourism.\n\nWhy this happened\nThe push to preserve traditional combat arts stems from a desire to safeguard regional heritage and historical identity. Organized university events serve as a primary vehicle for passing these indigenous skills down to younger generations.\n\n• Historical Roots: Forefathers in Manipur relied heavily on traditional combat techniques during the Seven Years Devastation and the Anglo-Manipur War. These events cemented martial prowess as a core part of regional resilience.\n\n• Academic Integration: Involving universities through structured national championships gives indigenous disciplines formal recognition. This institutional backing revives interest among modern student athletes.\n\nQuestions & Answers\n\n1. Which state does the Thang-Ta martial art belong to?\nThang-Ta is a traditional and historical martial art originating from Manipur.\n\n2. Where is the All-India Inter-University Thang-Ta Championship being held?\nThe championship is taking place at the Indoor Stadium in the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Imphal.\n\n3. How many states are represented in the championship?\nParticipants from 24 universities across nine states are competing in the event.\n\n4. What is the total number of competitors in the championship?\nA total of 252 students, comprising 146 men and 106 women, are participating.\n\n5. Who serves as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University?\nDaljit Singh Choudhary serves as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University.",
  "url": "https://trendkia.com/en/manipur/manipur-ke-parnparika-yuddha-kaushala-thang-ta-ko-bachane-aura-age-barhane-para-diya-ja-raha-jora-51988",
  "category": "Manipur",
  "publishedAt": "2026-10-26",
  "tags": [
    "Thang-Ta",
    "Manipur",
    "Martial Arts",
    "Imphal",
    "Sports",
    "Cultural Heritage"
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "site": "TrendKia"
}