Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has emphasized the necessity of unified efforts to preserve, nurture, and promote the rich indigenous sports, cultural practices, and traditional art forms of all communities in Manipur. Attending a major sports event in Senapati, the Chief Minister noted that the distinct athletic traditions of various tribal and valley groups represent the true cultural strength of the State and deserve systematic promotion and official encouragement.
Naga Indigenous Wrestling Showcase and Inter-Community Unity
The program, held on Monday (November 9) at the Astro Turf Ground in Senapati, was organized by the Senapati District Wrestling Association Manipur (SDWAM). The primary focus of the event was a live demonstration of Naga Indigenous Wrestling, locally known as Pyacha. Drawing comparisons between Pyacha and Mukna, the traditional Meitei wrestling style, Chief Minister Singh noted that every ethnic community maintains unique sporting customs that serve as bridges between people.
Highlighting the state's multicultural setup, the Chief Minister shared that Manipur is home to 36 distinct communities. He expressed immense satisfaction that 25 different communities actively came together to participate in and support the wrestling event in Senapati. According to the Chief Minister, such collective participation sends a clear and powerful message of peaceful coexistence, social harmony, and solidarity across the region.
Personal Martial Arts Journey and Comparisons to Shaolin Heritage
Reflecting on his personal path, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh recounted his lifelong passion for martial arts, which began in early childhood when he learned Thang-Ta, the traditional Meitei martial art. His interest deepened significantly in the 1970s after watching the iconic Bruce Lee movie Enter the Dragon, an experience that inspired him to systematically pursue Taekwondo.
Recently, at the inaugural ceremony of the 1st Manipur State Poomsae Taekwondo Championship 2026 held at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal, Singh was formally conferred the prestigious title of Grand Master 9th DAN in Traditional Taekwondo by Grand Master Jun Lee, President of the Global Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF).
Referencing China's world-famous 36 Chambers of Shaolin, which draws researchers, tourists, and martial artists from around the globe, Singh stressed that Manipur's traditional games and cultural heritage possess similar global potential. He asserted that with structured support and promotion, indigenous arts from Manipur could achieve international recognition and attract global interest.
Promoting Peace, Honoring Birsa Munda, and Youth Engagement
Addressing the broader situation in the state, Chief Minister Singh underscored that restoring and maintaining peace is an absolute necessity for future generations. He urged community elders and leaders to work collaboratively toward creating a stable and peaceful atmosphere where young people can grow, study, and thrive without hindrance.
The event also featured the observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, paying homage to legendary freedom fighter Birsa Munda for his monumental contributions to the tribal communities of India. To support emerging athletic talent, sports gear and utility kits were distributed to young athletes representing Senapati district. Additionally, the Chief Minister formally inaugurated an exhibition football match between Senapati FC and Hills Academy (U-15 Boys).
Delegation Meetings and Administrative Grievance Redressal
The event witnessed the presence of key leaders and officials, including MLA Paonam Brojen, the Home Commissioner, the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati, senior administrative officers, educators, and students. Following the public function, Chief Minister Singh held administrative discussions at the Deputy Commissioner's Chamber in Senapati.
During these interactions, the Chief Minister met separate delegations representing the BJP Senapati unit, the Naga People's Organisation (NPO), the Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA), and the Senapati District Women's Association (SDWA). The delegations submitted memorandums detailing local grievances, infrastructure needs, and civic concerns, which the Chief Minister committed to addressing through targeted government intervention.
