The sacred fire of Kangla was collected by the IPR Minister Sapam Ranjan and AMWJU president Wangkhemchan Samjai accompanied by the fellow journalists and proceeded towards the Press Club as a torch rally.

On the occasion, Ranjan said that the sports meet showcases the spirits of sportsmanship among the journalists of the state, and it is indeed a good opportunity to have casual contacts and quality time among the journalists who are always busy in their line of duties.

He further raised concerns on the use of abusive substances and instances of rash driving especially by the youngsters during the five days of Yaoshang festival. He appealed to the general public to participate in the festival safely and with responsibility.

Meanwhile, various local clubs in the Imphal area also kick-started sports festivals in their respective localities by collecting the ceremonial torch from the sacred Kangla Fort.

In the afternoon as a celebration of the Yaoshang festival, children in their traditional attires were seen visiting house-to-house to collect alms (a traditional practice) after the burning down the ceremonial Yaoshang hut at their respective localities. Thabal Chongba were also witnessed at various localities in the night.