The 15th International Hornbill Naga Wrestling Championship 2022 was held at Amphitheater, Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on 3rd December 2022 which was inaugurated by President, Rengma Hoho, Pollem Tep. Kezhaselu-o Pienyu from Kohima won the Championship.
Pollem said Nagas are trying their best to promote wrestling, which has been one of the rich cultural practices since their forefathers. He expressed gratitude to the elders for promoting wrestling in their way till the NWA took over, and added that the NWA has been striving to give their best to promote. He further added that judges and sports persons need to maintain integrity, sincerity, honesty, and persistence.
President Nagaland Wrestling Association Dr. Haibe Zeliang who gave the Presidential Address said NWA is allowed to showcase the rich culture and Traditional of wrestling during festivals when local and abroad tourists come to witness the society. Briefing the importance of wrestling said the Naga Community is well known by the mainland on account of outstanding performance of wrestling particularly wrestling belt.
In the professional Wrestling category, the champion was awarded Rs. 1.20000/-, Venuzo Dawhou from Thenyizu village got the 1st runner up with a cash prize of Rs. 80000/- Rukukhoto Khesoh from Yoruba village got 3rd position and a cash prize of 40000/- and Vemele Thingo got 4th position and a cash prize Rs, 20000/-.
Altogether 24 wrestlers participated from the Wrestling Association of Zeliang, Chakhesang, and Angami- eight wrestlers from each Wrestling unit. The special guest and other officials gave away the prizes with citation certificates to all the winners. All the participants were also given a certificate.
In the Amature/Tourist Category, tourists from Manipur, Kerela, Nepal, Mokockchung, and Manchester UK participated. The champion was awarded Rs. 30000/ to Rakhoveio Lumai from Phuba, the second prize of Rs. 20000/ to Sentilong Imchen from Mongcheng, 3rd position of Rs. 10000/- to Lao Jhekho from Saranamai and fourth place Rs. 5000/ to Limasunep Imchen from Mangmetong.
Earlier, an administration of oath was taken by the wrestlers administered by VP, NWA Dietho Koza. Honoring the event, Naga Wrestling Anthem was sung during this Hornbill wrestling. Dziekhrienuo Keretsu enthralled the audience with a special number.
The Tournament was conducted by Nagaland Wrestling Association.
The Referee and Judges included Chisazo Dawhuo, Seyielhoukho Sechu, Havens Phesao, Keneingulie Nagi, Eracha Zeliang, Surhoneyi Soho, Hangcheu Zeliang, and Visevo Zashumo. The match Commissioner was Co-opted Technical Supervisor Secretary NWA Kikhwesul Thokhwe. Jury board comprised Neikuolie Khatsu, Mosonyi Domeh, and K. Mark Gwuing. The programme was chaired by General Secretary NWA Vilekho.
Meanwhile, the official apprised tourists in the large gathering programme to witness the traditional stone-pulling ceremony at Verazouma at 11:00 AM on 6th December 2022, which is about 20 km away from the Kisama.
(Mhathung Ngullie APRO)
