Jacob Zhimomi, N Toshi Chang, Vivolie Kezo, and others
during the inaugural function of the 15th NWA Open Championship and first
Women’s Open Naga Wrestling Championship on Saturday at Khouchiezhie, Kohima
Local Ground. (EM Images)
KOHIMA — The 15th
Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) Open Championship-cum-first Women’s Open
Naga Wrestling Championship was held at Khouchiezhie (Kohima local ground) on
Friday with Minister for PHED and Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi as the special
guest for the event.
The mega sporting event witnessed 129 wrestlers from ten
tribes.
In his address, the minister expressed his delight at witnessing
the popular wrestling sport, which has been played for ages by the Tenyimi
community.
“We are proud that our Naga-style wrestling has gained
momentum,” Zhimomi said, and commended the wrestling fraternity for bringing
medals to the state.
Nagaland being the second oldest state in Northeast India
after Assam, he opined that it is high time for Nagaland to develop its own
identity — culturally and socially — emphasizing that its traditions and
customs should be recognised by the outside world.
Asserting that the state needs a unique identity, he
expressed confidence that wrestling would serve as a defining identity for the
state.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of developing
Nagaland’s own music and arts to gain recognition on a global scale.
Observing that the Nagaland Wrestling Association has
expanded its horizons, he noted that what initially began as a sport played by
three tribes has now extended to other Naga tribes, with ten tribes
participating in this year’s edition.
Zhimomi termed this development as a clarion call for all
Nagas to work together and coexist despite differences, acknowledging that no
one is perfect.
Pointing out that the NWA is elevating Naga wrestling to a
higher level, he also mentioned the association’s plans to host the Asian Belt
Wrestling tournament, emphasising that one must enter a structured system to
qualify on the global stage.
The minister also said that the state government is
committed to promoting and supporting sportspersons and that sufficient fund have
been allocated for various sports disciplines.
The minister commended the Nagaland Wrestling Association
(NWA) for hosting the first women's wrestling event, recognising it as an
opportunity for Naga women to participate and emphasising the importance of
equal partnership in the state's socio-political and economic growth.
He reiterated that wrestling is becoming a global identity
for the Nagas.
In his presidential address, NWA president Vivolie Kezo said
that the wrestling event not only fosters competition but also unites people in
a celebration of sportsmanship, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.
He commended the efforts of the wrestlers, stating that
competing at this level requires years of training, sacrifice, and unwavering
determination. Their commitment, he noted, serves as a beacon of discipline and
hard work for aspiring athletes.
“In Nagaland, we are fortunate to witness the pride and
enthusiasm surrounding Naga wrestling,” said Kezo, highlighting that among the
various sports and games held throughout the year, Naga wrestling stands out as
a favourite, attracting the largest crowds and being one of the most celebrated
events.
Further, the NWA, he said, has been working tirelessly to
bring all Naga tribes by introducing and promoting Naga wrestling to various
districts.
He called for collective efforts to bring pride and glory to
the Nagas through wrestling in its various styles, stating, “The future is
bright for Naga wrestling, and we will succeed together.”
N Toshi Chang, president of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples
Union, Kohima (ENPUK), attended the event as the honoured guest.
On the occasion, Dr. Hiabe Zeliang, Advisor to the NWA,
hoisted the NWA flag, while Rev. Iringtie Kauring, pastor of Zeme Baptist
Church, Kohima, offered the invocation prayer. Vekhriyi Chüzho, Technical
Secretary of NWA, administered the oath to the wrestlers.
