IMPHAL WEST: A Children’s Inter-Village Thang-Ta Demonstration was held on Saturday at Salam Kangjeibung Lampak, Imphal West, bringing together over 320 young Thang-Ta practitioners from different villages across the state.
Organised by Wide Angle and supported by Azim Premji Foundation, the event provided a platform for children to showcase their skills, discipline, and dedication to Manipur’s traditional martial arts.
The program was graced by S. Rajen Singh, Hon’ble MLA, Lamshang Assembly Constituency; Dr. H. Premkumar Singh, President, World Thang-Ta Federation of India; and Kh. Bhakta kumar Meetei, 10- time Mr. India and Pride of the Nation Awardee. Montu Ahanthem, Secretary of Wide Angle and Ex-Member, Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights, also attended as a distinguished guest.
Delivering the keynote address, Montu Ahanthem said the primary objective of the event was to foster communal harmony and encourage children through constructive physical activities. He added that the demonstration also aimed to preserve Manipur’s indigenous cultural heritage and provide psychosocial support to children as the state is currently facing armed conflict.
The young participants presented impressive demonstrations of various Thang-Ta techniques, reflecting discipline, physical fitness, concentration, and cultural values.
On the occasion, Thang-Ta Ojas A. Kadamba Meitei, H. Nimaichan, and Th. Bonbown Meitei of Kanglei Thang-Ta, Sindam, were felicitated withG mementos by the dignitaries. Wide Angle Thang-Ta instructors Phamdom Bishorjit Meetei and Barun Moirangthem were also honoured.
Research scholars from the National Sports University, supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), distributed Cheibi and Chunggoi sets to the in-charges of the two Wide Angle Thang-Ta centres where they are currently conducting field research.
The demonstration concluded with an appeal to the young practitioners to continue their training with dedication and to carry forward the legacy of Thang-Ta for future generations.
