2nd state-level Thang-Ta competition begins
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 19 2024: The Second State Level Thang-Ta Competition' organised by E-Pao Tengbang Lup, Manipur in collaboration with Kanglei Indigenous Martial Arts and Cultural Society (KIMACS) kicked off at the auditorium of Sangeet Kala Sangam in Khurai Lamlong Bazar on Saturday.

Presided over by E-Pao Ten-bang Lup, Manipur convenor Dr Th Sunil Deva Singh, the inaugural function was attended by Angom Ningthou, Sana Konung Angom Poireiton as chief guest and KIMACS president RK Leninsana as guest of honour.

In his speech, Angom Poireiton said that Thang-Ta and Manipuri Pony are inseparable parts of Manipur, a once independent kingdom with over 5000 years of history.

"Both played a critical role in safeguarding the independence and territorial integrity of the state for a long time.

As such, there is a need for conservation of Thang-Ta and Manipuri Pony," he stressed.

Lauding both KIMACS and E-Pao Tenbang Lup for their efforts in conservation of Thang-Ta, Poireiton, however, remarked that the future of the Manipuri Pony is uncertain, with its population dwindling day-by-day.

Thus, he urged for concerted efforts in preservation of this species.

Regarding the competition, he urged the participating students to compete with a sense of love for their community instead of focusing on merely getting the top prize or learning the martial art form.

Speaking on the occasion, RK Leninsana stated that Thang-Ta is not just a martial art form, but also teaches about decorum, custom, tradition and how to live in a society.

Students must inculcate the teachings to their bones instead of taking it at face value of a practical exercise.

He then urged the students to learn the core discipline principles of this martial art form and help in building a better future.

In all, 56 students between Class VII-XII are competing in the event.

On the first day on Saturday, 17 students competed in the "Ta Khousaba" category, wherein Thoiba Yumnam won first place, Sengoisana Lairenjam won second place and Milky Athokpam won third place.

Five students were also awarded consolation prices.

The competition for the "Thang Leiteng-Haiba" category will be conducted on Sunday.

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