Imphal, Mar 21 : In an endeavor to popularise the weapon-based artform used by ancient Manipuri warriors as an offensive and defensive mechanism with swords, spears and physical movements, Manipur recently hosted the first world 'Thang-Ta Championship'.
The first four-day Thang-Ta championship attracted over 250 participants from host India, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Nepal, UK and Sri Lanka who competed for medals in five different categories: Ahanba Phunaba, Anisuba Phunaba, Thang Leiteng, Thanglon Chatpa and Taron.
"Thang-T is the indigenous culture and this culture is the backbone for the coming of the sport. Without sport, players cannot benefit. Sports give benefit to young boys and girls. Then, they got to the field of sports," said H. Premkumar Singh, Grand Master and President, World Thang-Ta Federation
Hafsa Handoo, a young woman from Jammu and Kashmir, who has been practicing Thang-Ta for about ten years, said the game's systematic defensive and offensive techniques had attracted her to the sport.
"It is a pleasure to be here on the first International of Thang Ta Championship and I am really overwhelmed with the championship. This game is much nominated in India so I adopted this game," she added.
Paul Dickin, a British national and freelance television journalist, who is documenting the whole championship activity said he would popularize the game across United Kingdom by way of airing his documented work.
"I really love Manipur's martial art, Thang-Ta, its culture and tradition. I will try to send young players from UK to Manipur to learn the art and teach it to youngsters in our country," said Dicking.
Malaysian Thang-Ta exponents, who came with a 15-member delegation, are mulling over organizing the second edition of the international championship in their country.
"Being a player, coach, manager I have a future in large prospect because the Indian Olympic Council has recognized Thang-ta sport," said Senthil Kumarh, Coach, Malaysia.
With Thang-Ta growing international popularity there are many who would like to see the martial art as part of Olympics some time in the future.