CL John addressing Senior and 2nd Under-15 Open Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship at Pfutsero on November 7. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 7
Nagaland’s Forest, Environment & Climate Change minister CL John today stressed on the need to preserve and promote traditional Naga sports, as many are being forgotten in the present generation.
He was addressing the 3rd Senior and 2nd Under-15 Open Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2025 organized by Chakhesang Wrestling Association (CWA) under the aegis of Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) at Pfûtsero in Phek district.
Calling for greater promotion of Naga traditional wrestling across all Naga tribes, he said that while the Naga community has a rich heritage of indigenous sports, many have faded over time.
However, the Minister expressed happiness that Naga wrestling continues to be upheld with pride and promoted through events such as the championship. Appreciating the NWA, CWA and the wrestling community, John noted that wrestlers from the state have brought laurels both at national and international arenas.
The minister urged that the sport must not remain confined but be encouraged among other Naga tribes, beside the Angami, Chakhesang & Zeliang. Speaking on the importance of preserving tradition, he said that while many customs and practices are slowly being forgotten, platforms like the Hornbill Festival have played a role in reviving cultural identity. Encouraging wrestlers and young athletes, the Minister said sports today can be taken up professionally to earn both fame and livelihood.
Pointing to Pfutsero’s strategic location and fertile land, the Minister likened the region to the “Canaan of Nagaland,” and highlighted the potential not only in agriculture but also in animal husbandry.
He acknowledged the efforts of the CWA for consistently preserving traditional wrestling and noted that the State Government under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has been promoting sports and developmental activities across sectors.
Wrestling Festival by January 2026
Also gracing the event as guest of honour, Nagaland’s tourism director Veyielo Doulo, lauded the participation of wrestlers and supporters from non-wrestling communities, particularly Ao and Lotha tribes, and appreciated the formation of Wrestling Associations beyond the traditionally dominant wrestling tribes.
He said that being a cultural sport, Naga wrestling should belong to all Nagas and help foster unity and bonding.
Announcing a major initiative, the Tourism Department, in coordination with the NWA, will introduce a Wrestling Festival starting January 2026 to further promote the sport. Doulo encouraged athletes to maintain a sound and disciplined mind and body, noting that with increasing competitions, wrestling can indeed be taken up as a viable profession.
Earlier, CWA president Vezohii Riiho delivered welcome address at the inaugural session.
The programme was chaired by CWA vice president Zazhota Andrew Dawhuo while CWA assistant technical secretary Pozoto Shijoh administered oath to the wrestlers.
