Manipur becomes first NE state to host Japanese Sumo wrestling

IMPHAL, November 23, 2018: Manipur became the first state in the North East to host a Japanese Sumo Wrestling event as part of Manipur Sangai Festival 2018 in Imphal's Khuman Lampak Sports Complex on Thursday.

The event was attended by chief minister, N Biren Singh, minster of youth affairs and sports minister, Letpao Haokip and other dignitaries.

In his address, Singh said that his government was trying to rebuild the strong relationship between Japan and Manipur.

He said, "We are aware of the Japanese government's strong desire to maintain good relationships with Manipur. However, we couldn't show our good hospitality to them which made them hesitate to invest in Manipur in the past."

The state needed to lend support and co-operation to the Japanese government, he said, asserting that the Sumo wrestling festival was a part of efforts to regain cordial ties with Japan.

The chief minister lauded the Salai Holding Private Limited, for bringing the Sumo wrestlers to the state.

On the other hand, the 12th edition of Manipur Polo International, a part of the Manipur Sangai Festival, kicked off on Thursday in Imphal's Mapal Kangjeibung, one of the oldest polo grounds in the world.

Altogether six teams, India A (IPA), India B (Manipur), Uruguay, USA, England And Haiti were participating in this year's edition. In the opening match Uruguay beat USA 3-1.

With Nagaland Post inputs, image