31st Yubi Lakpi Yendamnaba held at Heirok to mark Sajibu Cheiraoba

As part of efforts to preserve indigenous games of Manipur, City Club Heirok organised the 31st edition of its annual ‘Yubi Lakpi Yendamnaba’ on the occasion of Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba on March 19, accompanied by cultural programmes and a tug-of-war competition.
The event was held at the club’s playground at Heirok Part-II Litan Makhong, with participation of 24 selected players representing 24 clubs from Heirok. Upholding royal traditions associated with the game, Ningthoujam Gopen Meitei was ceremonially designated as the king for the event.
Former Speaker Thokchom Lokeshwar Singh attended as Chief Guest, while City Club Heirok President Tonjam Romen Meitei presided over the function. Former Minister Moirangthem Okendro, Nupi Samaj President Thokchom Ramani, NIPCO President Oinam Premjit, Mapi Council President Kshetrimayum Romio, CADA President Hijam Priyokumar, COCOMI Farmer Wing Convenor Konthoujam Thoiba, AMSU President Lukram Malangba, along with Zilla Parishad members, Pradhans and representatives of civil society organisations attended as guests of honour.
In the main event, Ningthoujam Birabal of Heirok Part-II Bamol Leikai outperformed 23 other participants to emerge as the winner.
He was subsequently honoured by the ceremonial king, Ningthoujam Gopen Meitei, who conferred upon him the title of the king’s best aide along with a traditional headgear. The celebration concluded with the customary gesture of the public showering the winner with currency notes.