252 athletes from 24 Universities participate in Thang-Ta championship

Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Thang-Ta, Manipur’s traditional martial art, stating that it is deeply intertwined with the rich cultural heritage and glorious history of the State. He officially inaugurated the All-India Inter-University Thang-Ta (Men & Women) Championship 2026-27 at the Indoor Stadium, Khuman Lampak Sports Complex, Imphal.
Addressing the opening ceremony, the Chief Minister extended a hearty welcome to the technical officials, players and participants from across the country.
Sharing his personal association with martial arts, Khemchand Singh recalled that he had learned martial arts during 1975, 1976 and 1977. He said that the release of Bruce Lee’s film Enter the Dragon in 1978 greatly inspired him to pursue martial arts, following which he left Manipur to learn Taekwondo. He remarked that, at the time, he had never imagined that Manipur’s own traditional martial art, Thang-Ta, would one day achieve such great heights.
The Chief Minister expressed his sincere gratitude to the revered Gurus who have dedicated themselves to promoting Thang-Ta and acknowledged the committed efforts of the President of the World Thang-Ta Federation in advancing the traditional martial art.
He also extended his heartfelt thanks to Daljit Singh Choudhary, Vice-Chancellor of the National Sports University, for organising the prestigious championship, which brings together university-level athletes from across the country to showcase their skills and compete in Thang-Ta.
Highlighting Manipur’s glorious history, the Chief Minister recalled the Seven Years Devastation from 1819 to 1826, when the State came under Burmese occupation. He said that Manipur’s forefathers, with their indomitable courage and traditional martial skills, fought bravely to reclaim their land.
He further recalled the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, during which Manipuri warriors fought valiantly against the British, drawing upon their traditional martial skills, including Thang-Ta.
24 Universities from 9 States are participating in this championship. Altogether 252 students (146-Men and 106-Women) are participating in this tournament.