Echoes of thundering hooves and triumphant cheers filled Imphal Polo Ground as Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla unveiled the 7th Manipur Women’s International Polo Tournament 2026, honoring the state’s primordial polo roots at Mapal Kangjeibung.
Bhalla, hoisting the All Manipur Polo Association banner, vividly portrayed Manipur as the pulsating origin of Sagol Kangjei—modern polo’s purest, breathing embodiment and cultural cornerstone. He called for holistic advancement: sport promotion intertwined with pony welfare, grazing land defense, and safeguarding ancient arenas.
Celebrating the tournament’s feminist thrust, he described it as a bold manifesto for empowerment, radiating messages of boldness, stewardship, and athletic mastery. The ground’s ancient lineage elevates the spectacle globally.
Joining the revelry were First Lady Jyoti Bhalla, Additional Chief Secretary Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Major General Ravirup Singh from Assam Rifles (South), and Konsam Sharat Chandra Singh of AMPA.
Six days of adrenaline await teams from South Africa, Zambia, India A (Indian Polo Association), and local heroes India B (Manipur). This sequel to the Sangai Festival 2025’s 15th International Polo—hosting USA, Colombia, Chhattisgarh, and more after ethnic unrest’s shadow—marks a triumphant return.
Association officials marveled at the festival’s fresh vitality under Governor’s stewardship. Now, the women’s edition spotlights uncharted talents, blending heritage with horizon-expanding competition.
In Manipur’s resilient landscape, this event heralds renewal: ponies prance, women lead, and polo’s flame burns eternal, inspiring a nation to embrace its storied past while charging toward inclusive futures.