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13 Aug 2024

Polo: Unveiling the Regal Origins in Manipur's Heartland

Written by

The Logical Indian

Category

Sports

Views

Introduction

Polo, often hailed as the sport of kings, carries a remarkable origin story deeply embedded in the cultural tapestry of Manipur, India. While its global appeal is well-known, the roots of modern polo trace back to the picturesque landscapes of Manipur, where the sport, known as 'Sagol Kangjei,' 'Kanjai-bazee,' or 'Pulu,' evolved from local rituals into the beloved game of royalty and excitement.

The Beginnings in Manipur

'Sagol Kangjei,' the precursor to polo, emerged in Manipur with wooden balls and unique rituals. The name 'Pulu,' derived from the wooden ball, eventually became 'polo' in anglicised terms. The game's association with Manipur's rituals, particularly the reverence for God Marjing, suggests an origin predating historical records. King Khagemba's reign in 1605 marked the formalisation of polo's rules, laying the groundwork for its evolution.

Traditional Manipuri Polo

The traditional form of Manipuri polo differed significantly from today's version. Played with seven players on each team using local ponies, they lacked goalposts. Instead, scoring involved hitting the ball out of either end of the field. The use of mallets made from cane, bamboo root balls, and a prohibition on carrying the ball made Manipuri polo a distinct and special experience.

Popularity Among Commoners and Royalty

Polo's popularity extended beyond royalty, with commoners participating alongside their ponies. The kings of Manipur even had designated polo grounds within their forts, with the Imphal Polo Ground recognized as the world's oldest. Lieutenant Joseph Ford Sherer's visit in the 1850s marked a historic moment for polo's evolution.

Colonial Era and International Recognition

The British colonial era saw the establishment of the first polo club in India in 1834. Indian teams excelled internationally from the 1800s to the 1910s, with states like Alwar, Jaipur, and Hyderabad dominating tournaments. Despite setbacks from World War II and industrialization, efforts to revive polo persisted post-independence.

Revival and Global Recognition

The Indian Polo Association, founded in 1892, played a pivotal role in the sport's rejuvenation. The President's Cup, inaugurated in 1975, became a prestigious trophy. The IPA's centenary in 1992 and India's World Championship win in 1957 further fueled polo's resurgence. Today, polo has transcended its royal and military confines, finding a place in diverse Indian communities.

Conclusion

Polo's journey from Manipur's fields to international arenas underscores its enduring appeal and cultural significance. Born from indigenous roots, the sport has evolved into a cherished pursuit, reflecting India's rich heritage. With polo clubs registered across the country and its influence spreading to regions like Ladakh and Rajasthan, the legacy of polo continues to thrive. As we celebrate the thundering hooves and galloping ponies, let us acknowledge that the exhilarating sport of polo has its humble beginnings in the enchanting land of Manipur, India.

References

Indian Culture
https://indianculture.gov.in/snippets/sagol-kangjei

Livemint, Varuni Khosla, 16th Jan 2023
https://www.livemint.com/sports/news/indian-arena-polo-league-to-debut-in-april-2023-11673854396186.html

Tribune India, 12th Nov 2017
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/features/back-with-a-whack-let%E2%80%99s-play-polo-496279

The Hindu
https://www.thehindu.com/society/polos-forgotten-matriarchs/article61965296.ece#:~:text=This%20is%20Sagol%20Kangjei%2C%20the,organised%20the%20first%20polo%20match.

Traditional sports
https://www.traditionalsports.org/traditional-sports/asia/sagol-kangjei-manipur-india.html

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IndiaFirst Life & the logical indian

Headquartered in Mumbai, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), is one of the country's youngest life insurance companies. The Logical Indian is an independent and public-spirited digital media platform for Indian Millennials. IndiaFirst Life and The Logical Indian have come together to showcase India’s rich history of innovation in different fields of life which have made a significant mark on humanity and globally. The information presented here is the result of a collaborative effort between The IndiaFirst Life, Dentsu Creative & The Logical Indian. All research and fact-finding is credited to Dentsu Creative in association with The Logical Indian.