Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 22:
With the main objective of promoting indigenous games and sports, All Manipur Mukna Association is all set to organise a State Level Mukna Championship from April 24 to 25 at Mapal Kangjeibung.
The championship is being organised under the sponsorship of Democratic Students Alliance of Manipur (DESAM).
Announcing this during a press conference at the head office of DESAM here today, president in-charge of the student body PC Newton said the championship is being organised with the main objective of reviving and promoting the indigenous games and sports of the Manipuri people.
While people all over the world today are trying their best to promote their respective indigenous games and sports, it is rather unfortunate that Mukna, the traditional style of wrestling of the people of Manipur which has a rich and unique cultural heritage of its own, seems to have been forgotten by the present generation.
The fact that Mukna is losing its popularity among the people can be gauged from the fact that this once popular sporting event is no more being considered as an important event even on the last day of the Lai Haraoba and there is no player for participation when Mukna tournament is held at the intra-school level, Newton noted.
He explained that Mukna is one of the most masculine sporting activities of the Manipuri people and it is with the main objective of popularising this discipline that DESAM has decided to sponsor the championship.
Along with the support of the people, DESAM will also continue to work for the promotion of Mukta for its recognition at the Olympic level, Newton added.
Newton further informed that in all 150 players will participate in the Mukna championship.
There will be open system for players below 60 years of age as well as for players above 60 years of age.
Titular king of Manipur Leishemba Sanajaoba will inaugurate the championship and the prize money at stake for the first five winners are Rs 10,000 for the Ist position, Rs 7000 for the second position, Rs 5000 for the third position, Rs 3000 for the fourth position and Rs 1000 for the fifth position.
Besides, there would also be special felicitation for all those players who are above 60 years of age.