Tournament Highlights
Manipur Clinches International Polo Glory: Manipur lifted the 15th Manipur Polo International title after defeating Colombia 8–5, reaffirming its dominance in traditional and modern polo. The championship was held as a major attraction of the Sangai Festival 2025, celebrated annually to showcase Manipur’s culture, tourism, and sports. The week-long event, conducted from 22 to 29 November, drew strong national and international engagement.
Static GK fact: Polo is one of the oldest known team sports, and Manipur’s traditional version is known as Sagol Kangjei.
Significance of the Imphal Polo Ground
The final took place at Mapal Kangjeibung, widely recognized as one of the oldest functional polo grounds in the world. This location added historical depth and cultural richness to the championship. The ground has long stood as a symbol of Manipur’s equestrian legacy and continues to host prestigious polo events that attract global attention.
Static GK Tip: Imphal is the capital city of Manipur and is a major center for indigenous sports in Northeast India.
Leadership Presence at the Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Jyoti Grover Bhalla, who performed the ceremonial throw-in to start the match. The governor also released the official tournament souvenir, emphasizing the cultural and sporting importance of the event within the state’s annual calendar.
International Participation
The tournament saw notable participation from international teams, including a strong challenge from Colombia, making the competition more dynamic. Their presence reinforced Manipur’s global reputation as the birthplace of modern polo. Members of the Manipur Pony Society and multiple dignitaries were present, acknowledging the role of polo in promoting local pony conservation and heritage.
Static GK fact: The Manipuri Pony is an indigenous breed and is central to traditional polo culture in the region.
Prize Distribution and Closing Announcements
With India B (Manipur) emerging champions, the winners and runners-up were awarded Rs 2 lakh and Rs 1.5 lakh respectively. Governor Bhalla felicitated the teams with medals and cash prizes before declaring the tournament closed. The victory added further prestige to Manipur’s sports ecosystem while giving significant visibility to the broader Sangai Festival celebrations.
Static GK Tip: The Sangai Festival is named after the endangered Sangai deer, the state animal of Manipur.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Manipur Clinches International Polo Glory:
| Topic | Detail |
| Winner | India B (Manipur) |
| Runner-up | Colombia |
| Final Score | 8–5 |
| Venue | Mapal Kangjeibung, Imphal |
| Event Duration | 22–29 November 2025 |
| Festival Link | Part of Sangai Festival |
| Chief Guest | Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor of Manipur |
| Traditional Polo Name | Sagol Kangjei |
| Prize Money Winner | Rs 2 lakh |
| Prize Money Runner-up | Rs 1.5 lakh |
