The five-day “Revival of Indigenous Native Games (RING) 2026” concluded successfully in Manipur, celebrating indigenous sports, cultural identity, and community unity.

The event brought together sportspersons, cultural enthusiasts, and community members with the objective of preserving and promoting traditional indigenous games and martial arts of the state.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Huidrom Premkumar Singh highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Thang-Ta, stating that the traditional martial art has deep roots in Manipur’s history and was once used to defend the land and its people. He noted that Thang-Ta is now being promoted across the country under the Khelo India scheme and stressed the need for collective efforts to take indigenous sports to the international level.

Premkumar also emphasised the importance of safeguarding traditional sporting practices as part of Manipur’s cultural heritage and identity.

Chief Guest Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi described Manipur as a sporting powerhouse and underscored the need to promote indigenous games beyond the state. She said traditional games help instil discipline, physical fitness, and moral values among the youth while strengthening cultural pride and identity.

She appealed to people from all sections of society to work together for the preservation and promotion of Manipur’s rich indigenous sporting heritage.

The concluding ceremony witnessed the participation of athletes, cultural groups, organisers, and sports enthusiasts, reflecting growing interest in reviving and safeguarding traditional games and martial arts in the region.