NWA organises 30th Naga traditional wrestling championship, 1st Wrestling Festival 2026
KOHIMA, MARCH 7: The 30th Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2026 and the 1st NWA Wrestling Festival 2026 were held at Khuochiezie, Kohima, on March 6, with Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along gracing the event as the special guest.
The event was organised by the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland.
Addressing the gathering, Along expressed happiness at witnessing the growth of Naga traditional wrestling over the years. He said that promoting the indigenous sport was not only the responsibility of the association but also of the Naga youth and the community at large. According to him, everyone has a role to play in promoting the sports industry, and the wrestlers representing the sport today are its ambassadors.
The Minister observed that Nagaland is making progress not only in wrestling but in various other fields as well. He remarked that Nagas are naturally physically fit and that the spirit of sportsmanship among the people should continue to be encouraged. He added that many young people have the potential to champion the cause of sportsmanship for the Nagas and the nation.
Along also noted that sports today can bring both recognition and economic opportunities. Success in sports, he said, not only brings pride and honour to families and the state but can also contribute to the economic well-being of players and their communities.
Highlighting the significance of Naga traditional wrestling, he stated that the sport is now known not only among the Nagas but also among wrestling communities across the country. He described it as both a product and a way of life of the Nagas, reflecting the strength, courage and traditions of the people. He encouraged the wrestlers to bring honour to the sport not only within their communities but also on wider platforms.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Nagaland Wrestling Association and all those who worked to organise the event, stating that such initiatives help strengthen unity and community spirit while promoting sports among the youth.
Delivering the welcome address, NWA Advisor Er. Lhoubeizo Kesiyie welcomed dignitaries, officials, wrestlers and spectators to the championship and the first wrestling festival. He described the gathering as a significant occasion for the wrestling fraternity and thanked the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland for their support in bringing the festival to the state. He also welcomed guests and associations from outside the state and acknowledged the presence of 20 former NWA champions.
Chairing the programme, NWA President Kenlum Hemang said the event marked an important milestone for the association. He noted that the championship was not merely a sporting contest but also reflected discipline, culture, tradition and youth empowerment.
Earlier, the programme began with the hoisting of the NWA flag by former NWA President Neikhrolo Khalo, while the torch was carried by reigning NWA Champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü. The invocation was pronounced by NWA General Secretary Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao, Senior Pastor, CBCHK, and the oath of sportsmanship was administered by NWA Technical Secretary Vekhriyi Chüzho.
As part of the cultural segment, folk songs were presented by Vekutalu and Thunonulu with a Chakhesang folk tune, while a Sumi folk song was performed by Kungo Lejo of Shesulimi.
The day’s competitions featured the 1st NWA Under-15 Championship and the 1st NWA Provisional Championship as part of the wrestling festival. Young and emerging wrestlers from various Naga tribes including Angami, Chakhesang, Zeliang, Chang, Lotha, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam and Sumi participated, showcasing their skills and upholding the spirit of traditional Naga wrestling. (Molungnenla, IA Kohima)
