Is Jimi Okram the Game-Changer in Manipur’s Sepak Takraw Journey?

Diu, May 22 (NationPress) In the year 2000, a young Jimi Devi Okram found herself on a dusty field in the Singjamei district of West Imphal, captivated by seniors engaging in a fascinating sport characterized by acrobatic kicks and swift reflexes. With the National Games having just concluded in Manipur in 1999, two and a half decades later, Jimi, now 38, has risen to become one of the most esteemed players in Sepak Takraw at the inaugural Khelo India Beach Games in Diu.

Growing up with a widowed mother and a fiercely supportive elder sister, Jimi recalls, “My mother always told me, ‘Go play if it brings you joy.’” This early motivation became the cornerstone of her ambitions. Despite the loss of her mother, her determination remains unshaken. “I play to honor her name. She will forever be my guardian angel,” Jimi shared with SAI Media.

Jimi's elder sister, who works in a beauty salon in Manipur, has stepped in to fill her mother’s role, providing encouragement and financial support for her sports career. “Before coming to the Khelo India Beach Games, my sister assisted me in countless ways, ensuring I never felt the absence of my parents,” Jimi noted, adding that she has also competed in the 2010 and 2014 Asian Games.

From her initial days at the Youth Amateur Welfare Association (YAWA) club in Singjamei to being selected for the sub-junior nationals within just a year, Jimi’s rapid ascent is remarkable. Her impressive performances on both national and international stages led to her securing a position with the Manipur Police.

Reflecting on the transformation in the sport over her 25-year career, Jimi remarked, “When I started, we lacked infrastructure. Now, Manipur has a Khelo India Centre in Heingang, East Imphal, which conducts full-time sessions and nurtures young talents daily. The senior athletes also participate actively, knowing they are paving the way for the next generation.”

At the recently concluded Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025 in Bihar, athletes training at the Khelo India Centre (KIC) for Sepak Takraw in Imphal secured four golds, one silver, and one bronze, contributing to Manipur’s impressive medal tally of 30, including 11 golds.

Currently training at the KIC under Chief Coach Wahengbam Pramodini Chanu, Jimi noted, “Interest in Sepak Takraw has surged in Manipur at all levels. The KIC in East Imphal has made significant advancements, fostering growth in the sport.”

Veteran Manipuri Sepak Takraw coach Surjit Singh Waikom has played a crucial role in this evolution. A member of India’s first three-member team to participate in Sepak Takraw at the Asian Games, he stated, “The Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Imphal has produced numerous athletes in Sepak Takraw. Most of the SSB players from Manipur have emerged from SAI ranks. Both the Khelo India centre and the Manipur Government have significantly contributed to the sport's development.”

According to Singh, witnessing his juniors compete at the Khelo India Beach Games will leave a lasting impression. “With no sand courts in Manipur for beach-style play, we have always trained on local mud grounds. More courts and structured training will prepare them for international competitions,” he added.

Jimi, participating in the Trio Team Girls, Regu Girls, and Trio Girls events, aims to create an unforgettable experience not just for herself but for her entire state. “Infrastructure has improved tremendously compared to my early days, and younger athletes are showing renewed enthusiasm for the sport. Our federation has also made significant efforts for Sepak Takraw. Not just in Manipur, but across India, the game is elevating,” the 38-year-old expressed to SAI Media.

As the senior-most competitor, Jimi is committed to supporting the younger generation, whether as a coach or mentor. “Age is merely a number. This sport has given me everything. Now it’s my turn to give back. Though I may be nearing retirement, today’s youth will greatly benefit from events like the Khelo India games. Manipur’s legacy in Sepak Takraw will continue to flourish,” Jimi said proudly.