Vezo Luruo
Wrestling Enthusiast, Kohima
Naga wrestling, the most prestigious traditional sport in Nagaland, is deeply rooted in cultural pride, history, and a unique origin. Historically dominated by men, it symbolizes strength, honor, bravery, and masculinity. Beyond being a mere competition, it carries deep cultural significance, emotional connections, and a sense of belonging that strengthens and revitalizes community bonds each year. When these fundamental elements are disrupted, interest declines, and the sport gradually fades.
In the past, the tournaments were a source of immense pride, particularly for rural communities where the sport remains a cherished tradition, long viewed as an exclusive male sport. Fans and enthusiasts, many of whom grew up watching the sport in its original form, eagerly traveled miles, spending their hard-earned savings to witness the event in Kohima, the state capital. Their unwavering dedication and support have historically contributed to the success of these events, transforming them into grand celebrations of tradition and loyalty. Additionally, their patronage plays a crucial role in the sport’s economic sustainability.
However, recent changes—such as the inclusion of women in the same wrestling arena and new point rules—have made the sport less engaging for many, leading to declining attendance and a fading atmosphere. Traditional audiences, primarily from rural villages and towns, struggle to connect with the new adaptations, which seem imposed rather than an organic evolution. Any attempt to alter its original structure often faces strong resistance and backlash, as these changes are perceived as threats to its identity. If such modifications continue to erode the sport’s appeal to its core audience, its legacy could be at risk, or it may even face a boycott from certain sections of its fanbase.
While women’s participation in mainstream sports has grown globally, tournaments under the aegis of the Nagaland Wrestling Association should remain exclusive to men. This is due to the sport’s core values—intensity, physical strength, sacredness, masculinity, modesty, and cultural norms—all of which have contributed to its male exclusivity. The traditional style of Naga wrestling has specific customs—such as the prohibition against men establishing physical contact with women and the cultural taboos surrounding certain behaviors during the game—that are integral to the sport’s sacredness and sanctity. These traditions are deeply ingrained, and any attempt to include women in the same arena may be viewed as incompatible with the sport’s established framework, especially if it challenges these time-honored customs. Many have even argued that moving away from these practices could reduce the sport to a mere opportunistic pursuit, rather than preserving its traditional significance.
If change is unavoidable, one potential solution could be to introduce an alternative women sport without mixing or modifying the original men’s traditional sport. This approach mirrors the model used in sumo wrestling in Japan, where women’s divisions are completely separated while keeping the traditional men-only competition intact and undisturbed. This could allow women equal opportunities without compromising the sport's fundamental values.
While some evolving factors—such as the introduction of giant HD LED screens, VR review systems, digital promotions, and pay-per-view (PPV)—as well as the inclusive approach of male wrestlers from other communities, are commendable, the sport’s core identity must remain untouched, regardless of globalization and modernization.
As someone who has long followed the Nagaland Wrestling Association, I recently attended the latest tournament, as I usually do—partly out of interest in the Wrestling Championship, but mostly to catch up with old friends. Perhaps that, in itself, reflects the sport’s shifting appeal.
