Nagaland: Kezhaseluo-o crowned NASA wrestling champion

Defending champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü of Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA) Group-A was crowned champion of the 67th Northern Angami Sports Association Wrestling Meet, held at Khuochiezie, Kohima, on Wednesday.
The 28-year-old wrestler from Kohima village defeated Menuosetuo Yiese, also of Kohima village, in the final bout to successfully defend his title. With the victory, Kezhaseluo-o clinched the coveted championship for the fourth consecutive time, having earlier won the titles in 2020, 2022 and 2024.
For his triumph, Kezhaseluo-o walked away with a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, while runner-up Menuosetuo received Rs. 80,000.
Thejavizo Merhieso of NASA Group-C secured third place and was awarded Rs. 60,000, while Keneisevor Theünuo representing Group-B finished fourth and received Rs. 40,000.
The four quarterfinalists were each awarded Rs. 20,000.
In the team standings, NASA Group-A emerged as group champion with 71 points and bagged a cash prize of Rs. 50,000.
Earlier, during the inaugural programme, Minister for Housing and Mechanical Engineering P. Bashangmongba Chang underscored the deep cultural and traditional significance of wrestling in Nagaland. He described Naga wrestling as more than a sport, portraying it as a living expression of heritage, identity, and values passed down through generations. Traditionally, wrestling was practised in almost every Naga village, serving as a test of strength, courage, endurance, and masculinity. Victories in wrestling once symbolised pride and elevated social status, closely linking the sport to village life, festivals, and community gatherings.
Chang highlighted how the scope of wrestling has expanded over the years, with major events such as state-level championships and Hornbill Festival competitions now drawing large audiences, tourists, and media attention. This growth, he noted, has boosted the local economy by supporting small businesses, vendors, and the hospitality sector, positioning wrestling as both a cultural asset and an economic contributor.
He further emphasised the unifying role of Naga wrestling, which has evolved beyond village and tribal boundaries. The formation of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) in 1971, spearheaded by the Tenyimi people, created a common platform through the Naga Open Wrestling Championship, fostering unity, brotherhood, and mutual respect among youth from different tribes. Citing an example, Chang recalled how wrestlers from the Chang community trained under the Angami Sports Association at the NWA, leading to the inclusion of wrestling competitions in the Mini Hornbill Festival. He urged for wider participation across tribes to nurture more wrestlers and strengthen the collaborative spirit of the NWA. He concluded by noting that Naga wrestling has become a strong marker of identity, representing the state nationally and internationally while showcasing its unique sporting culture.
At the valedictory programme, guest of honour treasurer of the Nagaland Olympic Association, Neiyalie Angami, echoed similar sentiments. He described wrestling as a symbol of brotherhood and discipline for the Naga people, stressing the importance of obedience and respect among wrestlers. Angami characterised traditional wrestling as more than competition, calling it a medium of unity and shared blessings. He commended the NWA for its consistent efforts to promote the sport at national and international levels.
Looking ahead, Angami pointed to the upcoming National Games in Meghalaya in 2027, where 35 disciplines will be contested. Nagaland has been selected to host the wrestling discipline in the national style. He encouraged freestyle wrestlers to train rigorously, reminding them that they have about a year to prepare for the prestigious event.