Manipur: Thang Ta finds new energy amid peace and support
- ANI feature stories focused on Manipur -
*
- Thang Ta finds new energy amid peace and support (in Manipuri) : YouTube Link -
- Thang Ta finds new energy amid peace and support (in English) : YouTube Link -
In Imphal, young boys and girls are embracing Thang-Ta, the traditional martial art, to learn self-defense, discipline, and connect with their cultural roots.
Local training schools and the government are boosting its popularity, with Thang-Ta recognized by the Indian Olympic Association and included in school and college competitions.
Internationally, it has spread to several countries, with the World Thang-Ta Championship enhancing its global presence.
Huidrom Premkumar
President, World Thang Ta federation
(Transcription)
The state government is highly interested in promoting Thang-Ta, both in terms of financial support and as a sport. The Government of India also extends its support. Thang-Ta is now being included in the Khelo India Youth Games under the Ministry of Sports.
Linthoi
Thang-Ta Gold medallist
(Translation) Thang Ta is a part of our Manipuri culture that teaches us about self-defense, discipline, and sports. Just like there are other disciplines such as judo and wrestling, Thang Ta is also an important sport and martial art.
At the recently concluded 68th National School Games Championship 2025, held at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal,
Thang-Ta was featured alongside weightlifting, football, and Sepak Takraw.
Manipur dominated the Thang-Ta events, winning overall championships in both U-14 and U-19 categories for boys and girls, with Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir securing runners-up positions.
Khushi
Thang-Ta gold medallist from Delhi
(Translation) Coming to Manipur and playing Thang-Ta was very challenging, but I really enjoyed it. It was my first time playing here. Thang-Ta is a traditional martial art of India. I don’t want to live in India and practice a martial art from another country.
Thang-Ta is witnessing a remarkable resurgence as young people increasingly embrace this traditional martial art in Manipur and rest of the country.
Thriving training centers and growing government support are propelling its reach, transforming Thang-Ta into a powerful symbol of cultural pride, discipline, and resilience across the region.
* This video and transcript was provided to e-pao.net by ANI - Asian News International
Posted on 25 April 2025 .