3rd Manipuri Pony Stallion Show held at Imphal Polo Ground
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 17 2025: Manipuri Pony Society, Manipur Horse Riding & Polo Association and Manipur Equestrian Association jointly organised the 3rd Manipuri Pony Stallion (Mapa Sha) Show at Imphal Polo Ground (Mapal Kangjeibung) today.

A total of 14 pony stallions were showcased at the event sponsored by Mangal Foundation.

They were examined by a panel of judges comprising Dr Sagolsem Upendro Singh, Dr Laishram Arjun Singh, Dr K Bidyalaxmi and N Nehru Singh (VFA) from the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services, Government of Manipur.

The first prize of the Stallion Show was bagged by six-year old Wonderful, (Thangjam Gayatri of Chingkheihunba Polo Club), the second prize went to Takeo (N Bankim of Luwanglakpa Polo Club) while the third prize was secured by Bulbul (MC Chaoba of Thangmeiband Youth Polo Club) .

Speaking on the occasion, Professor W Chandbabu Singh, Vice Chancellor, Dhanamanjuri University expressed joy that Manipuri Pony Society, Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association and the Manipur Equestrian Association initiated a step to save the stallions by organising the show.

He added that Manipuri Pony holds immense significance in the State's civilizational process encompassing both history and culture.

Stating that Manipuri Polo/Sagol Kangjei cannot be omitted from history, the DMU VC added that the role of Manipuri Pony from the Seven Years Devastation till date, including its services to the royal families cannot be forgotten.

Highlighting the role of Manipuri Pony in the cultural life of Manipur, he stressed on the need to introduce this topic in the curriculum of schools, colleges and universities.

Additionally, the importance of Sagol Kangjei should also be reflected in the curriculum.

Referring to NEP 2020 guidelines, the DMU VC maintained that Manipuri tradition, culture, civilizational process should be integrated in the curriculum and revived.

Meanwhile, Professor Ch Priyoranjan Singh, president, Manipuri Pony Society shed light on the declining number of Manipuri Pony.

Ningthoukhongjam Ibungochoubi, secretary general, Manipuri Equestrian Association cited diminished number of natural grazing grounds, increased cases of food poisoning due to feeding in hazardous places like road sides, swamps etc and road accidents as the main reasons for dwindling number of pony stallions.

Last year 17 pony stallions registered for the show compared to this year's 14 .

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