What Exciting Moments Await at the Manipur International Polo Tournament?
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Synopsis
The Manipur International Polo Tournament has commenced, attracting teams from around the globe to showcase their skills at one of the oldest polo grounds in the world. As the excitement builds, this week-long event promises thrilling matches and cultural significance, highlighting Manipur's rich heritage in the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Venue: Mapal Kangjeibung is one of the oldest polo grounds globally.
- International Participation: Teams from the US, Colombia, and India compete.
- Cultural Heritage: The tournament emphasizes the significance of Sagol Kangjei.
- Government Support: Plans to enhance polo infrastructure are underway.
- Thrilling Matches: The tournament promises exciting competitions through November 29.
Imphal, Nov 22 (NationPress) In a grand celebration, the 15th edition of the Manipur International Polo Tournament kicked off on Saturday at Imphal Pologround -- Mapal Kangjeibung, acknowledged as one of the oldest polo venues worldwide.
An official from the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, the event's organizer, shared that both international and national teams, including players from the US, Colombia, India A (Indian Polo Association), India B (Manipur), and India C (Chhattisgarh), will display their expertise, talent, skill, and strategic brilliance as they vie for the championship title and the esteemed trophy.
The inaugural ceremony for the 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament took place on Saturday at Imphal Pologround -- Mapal Kangjeibung, situated in the heart of Imphal.
The week-long tournament, organized by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association, attracted thousands of sports enthusiasts, including many women, who gathered to witness the opening match.
The polo field at Mapal Kangjeibung appeared unusually crowded for this exciting event.
Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel extended a warm welcome to dignitaries, international teams, and local polo organizations participating in the prestigious international polo tournament held at this iconic polo ground.
He emphasized that Manipur is recognized as the birthplace of polo -- Sagol Kangjei -- and highlighted the sport's profound cultural significance to the region.
Sagol Kangjei is an ancient Manipuri sport that serves as the foundation for modern polo.
"The tournament's goal is to safeguard Manipur's polo heritage, promote the indigenous Manipuri pony, and encourage international collaboration," Goel stated.
The Chief Secretary also outlined government initiatives aimed at popularizing polo by enhancing infrastructure, recruiting international coaches, and hosting more global events in partnership with the Tourism Department, Department of Information and Public Relations, and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
He commended the organizers and expressed optimism for a successful tournament that honors the enduring spirit of polo.
The opening match showcased an exhilarating contest between the US Polo Team and the Colombia Polo Team.
Colombia triumphed with a score of 6-4, setting an electrifying tone for the tournament.
This seven-day tournament promises thrilling moments for all horse polo aficionados, commencing on Saturday and continuing until November 27, with the grand finale scheduled for November 29.
Retired IAS officer H. Deleep Singh, President of the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA), and Shailesh Kumar Chaurasia, Commissioner of the Manipur government, honored the event as the President and Guest of Honour, respectively.
The polo tournament coincided with Manipur's annual Sangai Festival, a ten-day tourism festival organized by the state government to promote tourism and its related economy.
The ten-day Sangai Tourism Festival commenced at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal on Friday (November 21).
Notably, both events highlight two species endemic to Manipur that are at risk of extinction.
The Sangai Festival takes its name from the state animal, the Sangai, a critically endangered brow-antlered deer found in the marshy wetlands of Keibul Lamjao National Park, approximately 45 km from Imphal.
Point of View
The Manipur International Polo Tournament not only celebrates a beloved sport but also underscores the region's rich cultural legacy. This event serves as a platform for international collaboration and highlights the need for preserving indigenous traditions, making it a significant occasion for both sports and tourism in Manipur.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Manipur International Polo Tournament held?
The tournament is held at the historic Imphal Pologround, known as Mapal Kangjeibung, one of the oldest polo grounds in the world.
When does the tournament take place?
The tournament runs from November 22 to November 29, 2023.
What is the significance of the tournament?
The tournament aims to preserve Manipur's polo heritage, promote the indigenous Manipuri pony, and foster international collaboration.
Which teams are participating in the tournament?
Participating teams include players from the US, Colombia, and various Indian states.
What other cultural events coincide with the tournament?
The tournament coincides with the annual Sangai Festival, promoting tourism and cultural heritage.
