Performers of Rhythms of Manipur adds flavour to the opening function
IT News
Imphal, Nov 22:
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh today opened the 14th Manipur Polo International at Imphal Polo Ground locally known as Mapal Kangjeibung, which perhaps, is the oldest Polo ground in the world.
The inaugural function of the 14th Manipur Polo International was open in traditional Manipuri style with women in traditional attires presenting edibles in traditional baskets called Phiruk. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh along with other dignitaries including YAS Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Transport Minister Khashim Vashum, Water Resources Minister Awangbou Newmai, MLA K. Robindro, MLA Thangjam Arunkumar and MLA Shanti all wore white Kokyet (a traditional headgear) while opening the prestigious events.
Due to the post Covid -19 situation, some countries which used to attend earlier didn’t attend. However, five international Polo teams including one from United Stated of America (USA) , one team from United Kingdom (UK), India Team A, India Team B (Manipur Polo team) and the Indian Navy Polo team are taking part this time.
Interestingly, audiences both from aboard and from the state witnessing the inaugural function of the international event organized in connection with the Sangai Tourism festival (this time) were enthralled by authentic performers of the Rhythms of Manipur. The Polo Ground (Kangjeibung) was spread with the authentic tune of the 40 lady drummers. And the eye of the audience were all caught in the beautiful traditional dance performances while playing the drums (Langdre) at the same time.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, who is also the Chief Patron of the organizing committee in his speech said that the international polo events will surely help in the initiative taken up by the state government for preserving Pony.
He said that , this time the state is organizing traditional pony related games – Sagol Kangjei, a traditional Polo game at the ground located inside the sacred Kangla ford and another Mukna Kangjei at Hapta Kangjeibung.
“1st Chief Minister Sagol Kangjei Championship has started from this year”, N. Biren Singh said. He said that in order to popularize the Pony bread the government is all set to allotment of pony to almost all Police Stations in the state for patrolling.
On the other hand the Chief Minister also said that Polo ground (play field) will also be developed at Imphal East district and Bishnupur district too, so that district level tournament can be conducted from time to time.
Opening match of the 14th Manipur Polo International was played between team United Kingdom and team Indian Navy.
In the first half , team England lead with 10 goals to nil.
Final match of the Polo event will be played on November 29.
