The two-day Kanglei Mukna Changyengnaba 2024 organised with the objective to preserve and promote traditional Manipuri games under the theme, ‘Enatki Masanna Yokhatshi’ was kicked-off at Dr Kamal Indoor Stadium, Manipur University, Imphal on Saturday.
The tournament is being jointly organised by Students’ Union Kangleipak (SUK) and All Manipur Mukna Association. On the occasion, SUK president Ningthoujam Dhanakumar highlighted the dwindling condition of traditional games of Manipur in modern age.
The youths today are completely unaware of the cultural significance of these traditional games, he added. He maintained that several traditional games such as Mukna, Mukna Kangjei, Kang and others are becoming exhibition games.
“The significance of these games has died down and are being replaced by other games and sports,” he said. However, he exuded confidence that reviving the popularity of such games would increase the cultural appreciation for other ancient practices as well. He stated that the tournament had been organised with the objective to inculcate such values and appreciation among youths.
Altogether, around 187 students from various schools, colleges and universities are taking part in two weight categories (under 60 and above 60 Kg). Head of department of Physical Education and Sports Science L Thambal, SUK advisor L Jayanta among others were present at the inaugural event.
