Pfutsero, February 2: The scenic town of Pfutsero is set to become the centre of traditional sporting action in Nagaland as the Chakhesang Wrestling Association prepares to host the 30th Senior and 4th Under-15 Naga Traditional Wrestling Championship 2026 on February 7 at the Pfutsero Sports Complex.
The championship, one of the most prestigious events in Nagaland's indigenous sports calendar, will be organised under the aegis of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) and managed by the Porbami Wrestling Association. Wrestlers from different tribes, districts, and wrestling units across the state are expected to participate, making the event a grand celebration of Naga culture, athleticism, and community spirit.
Naga traditional wrestling, locally known as Kene, holds a special place in the cultural heritage of the Naga people. Beyond being a competitive sport, it serves as a symbol of discipline, courage, respect, and unity among communities. Over the years, the annual championship has evolved into a major sporting spectacle, attracting wrestlers, sports enthusiasts, and spectators from across the region.
Adding significance to this year's event, James P.K. Sangma, National Working President of the National People's Party (NPP), will attend as the Special Guest. He currently serves as Vice President of the Council of State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation of India, Chairman of the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), and President of the Meghalaya Cricket Association. His presence is expected to add further prestige to the championship.
To encourage healthy competition and reward excellence, the organisers have announced attractive cash prizes for both categories. In the Senior Division, the champion will receive ₹2.5 lakh, while the runner-up, third-place, and fourth-place finishers will be awarded ₹1.7 lakh, ₹1.3 lakh, and ₹1 lakh respectively.
For the Under-15 category, the champion will take home ₹50,000, while the second, third, and fourth positions will receive ₹30,000, ₹15,000, and ₹10,000 respectively. Quarter-finalists will also be rewarded with ₹5,000 each in recognition of their performances.
Apart from individual prizes, special awards have been instituted to promote teamwork and discipline. The Group Champion award carries a cash prize of ₹20,000, while the Best Discipline Team will receive ₹10,000.
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Organisers said the championship seeks to preserve and promote the rich tradition of Naga wrestling among younger generations while fostering unity and sportsmanship under the motto, "Friendship Through Competition." They expressed confidence that the event would provide a platform for emerging wrestlers to showcase their talent and carry forward a cherished cultural legacy.
With substantial prize money, top wrestlers in contention, and strong community support, the championship is expected to draw large crowds and emerge as one of the major sporting highlights of Nagaland in 2026. The event is also expected to boost local tourism and reinforce Pfutsero's reputation as an important venue for traditional sporting events in the state.
