Kohima: Women wrestlers made history in Nagaland as they grappled for the first time in the Open Naga Wrestling Championship at Khouchiezie in Kohima on Friday. The event saw 29 women participate across two weight categories: 60kg and above, and below 60kg.
During the Hornbill Festival last year, exhibition matches were held for women during the International Wrestling Meet, paving the way for this historic competition.
In the 60kg and above category, 18-year-old Khrielhounuo Thevo from Seiyhama village claimed the championship title, while 15-year-old Lütholü Vezhü finished as runner-up.
In the 60kg and below category, Vizoseno Kiso (20) from Sakhabama village emerged as the champion, with 14-year-old Kulungolü Nakhro from securing second place.
The winners in both categories walked away with a cash prize of Rs 50,000 while the runners-up received Rs 25,000 each. The semi-finalists received Rs 10,000 each.
The women’s event was part of the 15th Nagaland Wrestling Association’s (NWA) biennial Open Championship, a prestigious competition that traditionally features male wrestlers across various weight classes.
Men’s Championship Results
The men’s division featured three categories: Open (heavyweight), 90kg and below, and 75kg and below.
In the Open Category, Venuzo Dawhuo dominated the competition, clinching his fourth championship title. Dawhuo won the title for the three consecutive times after he first won in 2015. Kezhaseluo Pienyü secured the runner-up position, while Rukukhoto Khusoh and Kezhavizo Thevo reached the semi-finals.
The winner in the open category was awarded Rs 2,00,000 while the runner-up received Rs 1,00,000. The semi-finalists received Rs 50,000 each.
In the 75kg and below Muleciyi Vadeo emerged victorious, defeating Seyiejalie Gwirie, who finished as runner-up. Kuluvezo Soho and Azhalhou Kire were the semi-finalists.
As for the 90kg and below, Sasüyi Nyokha was crowned champion, with Kevizhakho Suokhrie finishing second. Semi-finalists included Kekrukhrielie Kehie and Mulusu Veswuh.
The winners in the 75kg and below and 90kg and below categories received Rs 1,00,000 while the runners-up received Rs 50,000 each. The semi-finalists were awarded Rs 50,000 each.
Promotion of Naga wrestling
Minister Jacob Zhimomi, attending as the special guest, emphasised the significance of Naga wrestling in shaping the cultural and social identity of the Nagas. He highlighted the sport’s deep historical roots and its growing recognition.
Zhimomi commended the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) for expanding the sport’s reach and fostering unity Naga tribes. He encouraged Naga athletes to aim for international competitions like Asian belt wrestling, which require a high level of skill.
He assured that the Government of Nagaland (GoN) is providing support for the sport but stressed the need for continued investment. Wrestling, he reiterated, is emerging as a defining aspect of Naga identity.
Calling on experienced wrestlers and leaders to mentor the younger generation, he extended his best wishes to all participants, particularly Naga women in wrestling. Zhimomi also expressed confidence in the athletes and the future of Naga wrestling.
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