Former Mister India from Manipur passes away

IMPHAL — Nongthombam Maipak, former Mister India title holder and well known veteran body builder of Manipur popularly known as Mister Maipak, passed away at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal after battling with an illness on Monday evening. He was 88 is survived by his wife, four sons and three daughters.

Maipak was born on June 12, 1935, at Uripok Sorbon Thingel Sinam Leikai in Imphal West district as the second son of late N Komol Singh and Tampaklei Devi.

The legendary bodybuilder fell in love with weightlifting after seeing the amazing body structure of an army officer, who temporarily resided near his residence, practicing weightlifting regularly in morning and evening.

Maipak, also known as ‘Son of Manipur,’ won the Mr India title in 1970 and represented India in the Mr Universe competition held from September 25-26, 1971 at Paris (France) and was honoured with the ‘Best Indian Style Mythological Pose,’ besides bagging 10th position in the competition participated by 72 contestants.

Maipak was also a renowned athlete in hammer throw, shot-put and discus throw events. He once broke the national records on behalf of Manipur team in hammer throw competition during National Games held at Delhi in 1958.

Manipur Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, condoled the demise of Nongthombam Maipak.

Sharing the photograph of Maipak in his official X (formerly twitter) account, Biren Singh wrote, “My heartfelt condolences on the demise of Nongthombam Maipak, the son of Manipur. His achievements as Mr India 1970 and as Mr Universe 1971 participant brought pride and left an indelible mark on our state. May his legacy inspire generations to come and may his soul find eternal peace.”

In another post, he wrote, “Attended the cremation of Late Shri Nongthombam Maipak and paid my deepest respects. Late Shri Nongthombam Maipak holds a special place among the iconic figures of Manipur. He has been a major inspiration among the youths in the field of bodybuilding, and shall continue to inspire the upcoming generations. I pray for the departed soul to rest in peace at the heavenly abode. I further extend my sincere condolences to his family & followers.”

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