Polo is a sport that is often associated with royals, especially the British kings and queens. However, the story of the origin of this sport leaves many baffled. Because, born in the 14th century, this sport came from a place which is unimaginable for many.
The origin of Polo
Polo originated in the 14th century in Manipur. In its earliest form, the sport was known as 'Sagol Kangjei,' meaning the 'horse stick game.' As the name itself suggests, Polo was played by players riding horses, with bamboo canes and wooden balls called 'Pulu.' The complexities of the sport meant it was a great combination of tactics and warrior training.
Intergal part of Meitei community
'Sagol Kangjei,' or the 'horse stick game,' has been an integral part of Meitei community, an ethnic group that's primarily from Manipur. The sport represents the bravery that's common in the Meitei community.
In the initial days, Sagol Kangjei matches were played at the Kangla Fort and were combined with rites dedicated to local deities. At times, it also served as a fun pastime within the communcity.
Introduction to British officers
From the Meitei community, the sport reached British officers in the 1850s. During that phase, British army officers stationed in Manipur were introduced to the game.
Now, these officers started formalising the rules, and commercialising the game. Soon, they gave it a new name, Polo. This name was derived from the word 'Pulu' that the Meitei community used for the wooden ball.
The world’s first polo club was established in Silchar, Assam, in 1859, a long time before it became known in London or Calcutta.
And then Polo went global
Polo galloped from Haklongra palace to the international sports world. From palatial play to international competitions, Polo has a distinguished history of honest transition from the hills of Manipur to the global stage.
The heart of Polo
However, even today the heart of Polo is still in Imphal as every year, some players still play the superceding game of Sagol Kangjei, reminding us that one of the noble games of the world started in a corner of the northeastern plains of India.
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