Former Mr India N Maipak passes away
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 20 2023: Bodybuilding legend Nongthombam Maipak, who had won Mr India and competed in the Mr Universe, passed away due to pulmonary infection at RIMS ICU on Monday.

He was 90 years of age.

He is survived by his wife, five sons and four daughters.

His last rites will be held on Tuesday.

According to his son Krishnachandra, Maipak had a minor stroke in 2003 and had pulmonary infection during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Early this year, he suffered from Hemiplegia, paralysis on one side of the body.

As his condition worsened last month, he was admitted at RIMS ICU on October 22 and he breathed his last on Monday around 5 pm.

Born as the second of three children to Nongthombam Komol and Tampaklei on June 12, 1935, at Uripok Sorbon Thingel Sinam Leikai, Maipak emerged as'a pioneer in Indian bodybuilding, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

His journey began in 1948 when he embarked on a quest to find a sport that could put Manipur on the national map.

With a robust physique, he delved into bodybuilding, weightlifting, and athletics.

Inspiration struck during the Second World War when Maipak observed an Army Lieutenant Colonel practicing weightlifting in Imphal.

At the tender age of around 11, he developed a routine of discreetly observing the gym exercises of the British Lieutenant Colonel residing in Naoremthong, Imphal.

The observant youngster's keen interest did not go unnoticed by the Col onel, who, instead of shooing him away, initiated a warm friendship.

This marked .the beginning of a unique camaraderie, as the Colonel welcomed him to the gym, fostering a bond that transcended age and background.

Captivated by the officer's physique, Maipak decided to pursue bodybuilding.

Post-War, he collected war remnants to fashion makeshift weights, kickstarting his training.

In 1953, he entered the 4th Mr Manipur Contest, securing third place in bodybuilding but clinching the top spot in weightlifting.

His prowess extended to Hammer Throw, Shot Put, and Discus throw events, dominating competitions in Manipur from 1953 to 1958 .

In 1958, Maipak shattered national records in Hammer Throw and Shot Put at the Delhi Nationals.

His achievements continued in 1970 when he earned the title of "Mr Assam-shri" and three gold medals in weightlifting and powerlifting.

A defining moment came in 1970 when he triumphed at the Mr India contest in Calcutta, besting 132 contestants.

This victory earned him a spot in the Mr Universe Contest in Paris in 1971, where he emerged among the top 10 position holders out of 72 contestants.

His portrayal of mythological poses, including Lord Krishna and Christ on the cross, earned him a special prize.

Maipak's illustrious career included serving as a sports officer in Manipur Police and later becoming a bodybuilding coach in the sports department.

His journey remains a testament to dedication and excellence in Indian bodybuilding.

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