Manipur State Indigenous Open Wrestling Championship 2025 kicks off in Senapati
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, April 29 2025: The Manipur State Indigenous Open Wrestling Championship 2025, organised by the Senapati District Wrestling Association, Manipur (SDWAM), commenced on Tuesday at the Senapati Astro Turf Ground.

The event celebrates a traditional sport deeply rooted in Naga cultural heritage, promoting physical strength, discipline, and community cohesion.

Indigenous wrestling, involving strategic grappling techniques, is more than a contest of strength - it is a display of respect, tradition, and cultural identity.

The championship was inaugurated with traditional horn-blowing, symbolising the event's rich heritage.

Manipur State Indigenous Open Wrestling Championship 2025 kicks off in Senapati

The opening ceremony was graced by chief guest Thaithuilung Pamei, IAS, commissioner of Sericulture and Horticulture, and guest of honour Mamoni Doley, IAS, deputy commissioner of Senapati.

In his welcome address, SDWAM president DS Masounii highlighted wrestling as a unifying cultural practice once used to resolve conflicts between communities.

He encouraged participants to uphold sportsmanship and discipline.

General secretary RK Gideon added that SDWAM, established in 2000, has worked tirelessly to preserve and promote traditional sports through such events.

Chief Guest T Pamei emphasised the need to professionalise traditional wrestling, drawing parallels with ancient Olympic traditions.

He urged young wrestlers from tribes such as Poumai, Mao, and Maram to pursue the sport at state, national, and even Olympic levels, under structured programmes like "Catch Them Young".

DC Mamoni Doley praised the initiative, noting the sport's role in preserving identity amid modernisation.

She reaffirmed the district administration's support and expressed hope that state support would further strengthen efforts to revive indigenous sports.

The championship features 58 participants across four categories: 14-15 years (15 wrestlers), 16-17 years (16), open category under 70 kg (15), and open category above 70 kg (13) .

The tournament will continue until May 2 .