Assign a celebratory day for Sagol Kangjei, appeals KDS

IMPHAL, Jun 23
The Khangabok Development Society (KDS) has appealed the State Government to do the needful to help 'Sagol Kangjei' get a dedicated celebratory day in its name.
The society in its press release shared that it does not need further explanation that Sangol Kangjei or modern polo has its origin in Manipur before it was popularised by British.
The game which is also known as the 'The Sports of Kings" has been played in the State since time immemorial and historically it is believed that the game was introduced during the reign of King Kangba, the release said.
The sporting event has an inseparable link with the State's culture and there are also many accounts of Pony which is a very important ingredient of the game, it said. As such many measures have been initiated to preserve Manipuri ponies from various quarters, it said.
The game which was once an Olympic event continues to retain its values till date and even a dedicated tournament 'Manipur Polo International' has been an integral part of Sangai Festival celebrated annually in the State, the release said.
It may also be noted that India Post issued a postage stamp to commemorate the occasion of the 150th Anniversary of introduction of Sagol Kangjei to the world in 2014, it said.
Considering the significance of the Manipur's indigenous game, it is high time a day should be established in it's name such as 'World Sagol Kangjei/Modern Polo Day or International Sagol Kangjei Day', said KDS while drawing the attention of the State's CM, Sports Minister and concerned department to do the needful.
KDS also expressed hope that assigning a day in the name of the game will surely be instrumental in further popularizing the game and also increase the credentials of the State which is considered as 'power house of Indian sports'.