Did Bihar Make History at KIYG 2025 While Manipur Excelled in Thang-Ta?

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Did Bihar Make History at KIYG 2025 While Manipur Excelled in Thang-Ta?

Synopsis

The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 witnessed a historic moment as Bihar secured its first gold medals in Thang-Ta, while Manipur showcased its dominance with three golds, highlighting the growing recognition of indigenous sports in India.

Key Takeaways

  • Bihar achieved a historic milestone by winning its first gold medals in KIYG.
  • Manipur dominated Thang-Ta with three gold medals.
  • Huidrom Premkumar is a key figure in promoting Thang-Ta.
  • The event showcased the growth of indigenous sports in India.
  • 25 states participated in the Thang-Ta competition.

Gaya (Bihar), May 14 (NationPress) – The martial art of Thang-Ta, hailing from Manipur and one of the five indigenous sports featured at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, reached its conclusion on Wednesday at the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD). The host state of Bihar celebrated a historic achievement by securing its first-ever gold medals, while Manipur dominated the event with an impressive collection of three gold medals.

The Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to promoting indigenous sports such as Thang-Ta, Mallakhamb, Gatka, Kalarippayattu, and Yogasana. Advocates of these sports across the nation are striving to secure a presence for their disciplines in the upcoming 2036 Olympics, which India aims to host for the first time.

When it comes to Thang-Ta, Huidrom Premkumar has been a pivotal figure in its evolution and promotion. At 70 years old, he reflects on the journey of Thang-Ta.

“This sport was banned by the British in 1891 as it posed challenges for them. Thanks to the efforts of a local Raja, it was reinstated in 1930, and my guru Rajkumar Sanahan took over thereafter,” he shared.

Following Sanahan's passing in 1988, the responsibility of promoting Thang-Ta fell to Premkumar, who has worked tirelessly to spread its reach both within India and internationally. Countries like South Korea and Iran have hosted Thang-Ta events due to his efforts. The sport received a significant boost in 2021 when the Indian government included it in the KIYG, leading to its growth.

“I have dedicated my life to Thang-Ta. I am extremely delighted with our current position, but there is much more to accomplish. We need to elevate our local martial arts. While respecting global martial arts, our focus should be on our native traditions,” Premkumar emphasized.

The KIYG features two styles of Thang-Ta: Phunaba Ama, the traditional form utilizing a sword (Cheibee) and shield (Chungoi), and Phunaba Anishuba, a variant created by Premkumar, which allows kicking but no shield. Overall, 25 states and 128 athletes competed in four weight categories (-52kg & -56kg for girls and -56kg & -60kg for boys), with eight gold medals available. The three-day event, held from May 12-14, included pre-quarterfinals, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Manipur secured three out of the eight gold medals thanks to athletes Thokchom Srinivas Singh, Konjengbam Pareihanba Singh, and Thangjam Lembisana Devi. Bihar and Assam each earned two golds, and Madhya Pradesh claimed one. Bihar's Priya Prerna and Mahika Kumari made history by winning golds in Phunaba Ama (-52kg) and Phunaba Anishuba (-56kg), marking Bihar’s first gold medals in KIYG history. They also added three bronze medals, awarded to Bhumik Raj, Lucky Kumar, and Suvakshi Sargam, surpassing their previous total of one bronze.

Bihar's coach Sarangthem Tiken Singh, originally from Manipur, played a crucial role in the success of Thang-Ta for the host state after being appointed at the request of the local federation. “The talent here is remarkable. We conducted a two-month camp in Rajgir, and their progress was astonishing. I’m incredibly proud of their achievements,” he remarked.

Point of View

It is vital to acknowledge the significance of events like the Khelo India Youth Games. They not only highlight the talent and potential of local athletes but also emphasize the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous sports. The success of Bihar and Manipur serves as a beacon of hope for the future of sports in India, encouraging young athletes to embrace their cultural heritage.
NationPress
20/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thang-Ta?
Thang-Ta is a traditional martial art form from Manipur, India, combining armed and unarmed combat techniques.
When did the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 take place?
The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 took place from May 12 to May 14 in Gaya, Bihar.
How many gold medals did Bihar win?
Bihar won its first-ever gold medals at the Khelo India Youth Games, securing two golds in Thang-Ta.
Which state had the highest gold medal tally?
Manipur had the highest gold medal tally with three golds in Thang-Ta.
Who played a key role in promoting Thang-Ta?
Huidrom Premkumar has been instrumental in the development and promotion of Thang-Ta, both in India and internationally.