27th Wrestling Championship of Zeliang Wrestling Association concludes

DIMAPUR — Nlumrai from Mpai village defeated Peinachi of the same village in the final to win the 27th Zeliang Wrestling Championship title on March 9. The event was organised by the Zeliang Wrestling Association at GHSS Ground in Jalukie Town, Peren.

The champion of the wrestling event received a cash prize of INR 80,000, while the 1st runner-up Peinachi received INR 50,000; the third position holder Suiriepeu from Kezanglwa village took home INR 30,000; the 4th position holder Isapsi from Kendung village was awarded INR 20,000; and INR 5000 each for quarter finalists, reported DIPR in a delayed update on Monday.

Attending the event as the special guest, Advisor of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio told the gathering that Naga wrestling is one of the oldest traditional sports of the Nagas.

Maintaining that the sport was “played mainly among three Naga tribes namely Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang to settle differences between parties during disputes”, he said it is their inherent duty to take the sport to another level and encourage among other Naga tribes as well.

While reminding that the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is giving special attention to promote young and talented sportspersons by way of providing training, he said sports associations, village authorities, student unions and parents should support the government in this endeavour.

To the young wrestlers, Zhaleo said that there is no substitute for hard work and that perspiration, commitment, discipline and true sporting spirit are required to excel in the field of sports.

The special guest hoisted the ZWA flag during the inaugural session, followed by presidential address from ZWA President, Ada Nsanglung, and oath administered to 45 wrestlers from four zones — Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern – by ZWA Advisor, Namcaulakpe.

Associate Pastor, JTLBC, Ihusing, gave away the prizes to the winners and General Secretary of ZWA, Dileugi, delivered the vote of thanks.