Naga Wrestling Team Sets Off for 6th World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

Kohima, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: DIMAPUR, AUG 26: The Naga Wrestling team, led by Wrestling Association (NWA) president Vivolie Kezo, departed on Wednesday for Kyrgyzstan to participate in the 6th World Nomad Games scheduled from August 29 to September 7, 2026, at Cholpon-Ata. This event is significant not only for the athletes but also for the promotion of Naga culture and traditional sports on an international platform.

The contingent includes male wrestlers Huluyi D. Vadeo and Kuvenu Puro, female wrestlers Vikehenuo Zumvü and Haizuyile Zeliang, along with officials, coaches, and referees. Naga Wrestling has been officially included as part of the Demonstration Sports Programme of the Games. This inclusion allows the team to showcase the unique traditional style of Naga Wrestling, which has deep cultural roots in the Naga community, as well as to compete in belt wrestling across their respective weight categories.

The Naga Wrestling Association has emphasized that its primary objective has been to promote Naga Wrestling at both national and international levels. Over the years, the association has successfully expanded the sport across various tribes within and introduced it on a national scale. Naga Wrestling was recently featured as a medal event at the 12th AITWPF National Championship held in Goa earlier this year, where 16 states participated, highlighting the growing interest and participation in this traditional sport.

The World Nomad Games, which began in 2014, celebrate the cultural heritage of nomadic peoples worldwide through various traditional sports. The inclusion of Naga Wrestling in this event is a significant milestone, as it provides a platform for the sport to gain international recognition. The NWA sees this as a crucial step towards achieving its vision of global recognition for Naga Wrestling. Looking ahead, the association aims to secure Naga Wrestling as a medal event at the upcoming UWW World Wrestling Championship 2026 and the next World Nomad Games in 2028, indicating a long-term strategy to elevate the sport further.

The association expressed gratitude to the Government of , under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, for its continued support in promoting traditional sports. The government’s backing is essential, as it not only provides financial assistance but also helps in raising awareness about the cultural significance of Naga Wrestling. The NWA also acknowledged contributions from Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Advisor Kudecho Khamo, and social activist Pelekho-u Akho Nagi. Their financial assistance has been instrumental in enabling the team’s participation in the Games, showcasing a collaborative effort between the government and local organizations to promote sports.

Naga Wrestling, characterized by its unique techniques and cultural significance, is more than just a sport; it is a representation of the Naga identity and heritage. Traditionally, wrestling has been a part of Naga festivals and celebrations, serving as a means of social cohesion and community bonding. The athletes participating in the World Nomad Games carry not only their personal aspirations but also the hopes of their community to see their culture recognized and celebrated on a global stage.

The World Nomad Games provide an opportunity for athletes from various cultures to come together, fostering mutual respect and understanding through sports. The Naga Wrestling team’s participation is expected to draw attention to the rich traditions of the Naga people, potentially inspiring other indigenous communities to showcase their own cultural sports. This could lead to greater interest in traditional sports and their preservation, which is increasingly important in a rapidly globalizing world.

As the Naga Wrestling team prepares to compete, they embody the spirit of resilience and pride of their community. Their journey to Kyrgyzstan not only represents a sporting event but also a cultural exchange that highlights the importance of preserving traditional practices in an era dominated by modern sports. The NWA's efforts to promote Naga Wrestling are commendable, and their participation in the World Nomad Games could serve as a catalyst for future initiatives aimed at elevating traditional sports in India and beyond.

In conclusion, the Naga Wrestling team’s participation in the 6th World Nomad Games is a significant event that underscores the importance of cultural representation in sports. The support from the government and local leaders, combined with the dedication of the athletes, sets a promising precedent for the future of Naga Wrestling and its potential impact on the global sports landscape.