Imphal, March 05: In what could be described as a significant remark Italian photo-journalist, polo researcher and writer Fulvio Cinquini said 'Manipur is where the modem game of polo was born'.

The author of 'Man and Horse - An Enduring Bond' speaking to mediapersons after the polo exhibition match played in the traditional styles of the Manipuris at Imphal Pologround this afternoon said 'Although no one will ever be sure where polo was actually invented, we can be sure that Manipur is the birthplace of the modem game which was first brought of Europe by the British in 1864 with the first Polo Club established ten years later at Malta�.

Elaborating on the traditional version of the game exhibited today, Cinquini said polo is not just a game but is an integral part of the culture, religion and philosophy of the people.

He attributed interest in history and love for horses that enticed him to visit Manipur a place not many western people had heard of and of which he could only point out on the map.

Cinquini said he had just witnessed a piece of history, not just a game and felt that he had traveled back in time adding that he was awestruck at the sight of the traditional costumes, saddles and harness which he described as a unique fashion.

He appealed to the people of Manipur to keep alive the tradition and most importantly strive to preserve the rare breed of Manipuri ponies while hoping all efforts would be made for the survival of the endangered species.

The Italian expert added that not only the aesthetic aspect but also the functional beauty of the Manipur; pony is what makes up the equestrian sports a reality.

On further spread and popularity of game, Cinquini stated that polo featured for centuries in India while referring to China, Japan, Persia etc as other ancient countries that played the game.

With the waning of the Mughal empire polo survived only in pockets of Kashmir and at Manipur, he informed adding the British picked up the game from Manipur, introduced it to the world and made numerous changes to the rules to make it less dangerous.

Thus we can absolutely and conclusively prove that modern polo as we know today originated in Manipur, said Fulvio Cinquini.

Meanwhile Cinquini describing the exhibition polo match at Imphal Pologround today as a thrilling experience of a lifetime reiterated on preserving the pony breed found in Manipur.

Talking to this reporter on the sideline of the exhibition match organized in Cinquini's honour the Italian stated that today's exhibition tie was very colorful referring to the traditional attires worn by the players.

A keen polo follower from a very tender age and himself a player Cinquini said he had read books pertaining to the game played in Manipur as well as the unique rule to suit local conditions.

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