Olympic bronze medalist Manu Bhaker has trained in Huiyen Lallong; know about this martial art form from Manipur

Manu Bhaker has made history by winning two medals at a single Olympics edition. Her prowess in shooting has been appreciated by many across the world. 

Bhaker’s exceptional shooting performance stems from multiple sources. A key factor is her practice of Huiyen Lallong, an ancient martial art from Manipur, India. This unconventional pursuit sharpens her focus and compliments her shooting skills. Beyond the range, Bhaker maintains her fitness through equestrianism and regular yoga practice, demonstrating a holistic approach to her athletic development.

Dilip Kumar Rai, northeast cultural expert, Rinchenpong, Sikkim, says, “Huiyen Lallong, or Huyen Langlon, is an ancient martial art form deeply rooted in the vibrant culture of Manipur, a state in northeastern India. With a history dating back centuries, it’s not merely a fighting style but a way of life, embodying the region’s warrior spirit and cultural values.”

The significance of Huiyen Lallong in Manipuri culture is profound, he adds. It was traditionally practiced as a means of self-defense and military training, with warriors honing their skills to protect their communities. “The art form is also deeply intertwined with spiritual practices, with practitioners seeking to cultivate inner peace, discipline, and a connection to their heritage.”

In the past, Huiyen Lallong was a crucial part of the ‘Lallup’ system, a mandatory military service for all able-bodied men in Manipur. This system ensured that the kingdom was always prepared for any threat, and Huiyen Lallong played a vital role in maintaining the region’s independence and resilience.

Today, Huiyen Lallong continues to be practiced and celebrated as a cultural treasure. It’s showcased in traditional performances, festivals, and competitions.

Huiyen Lallong continues to be practiced and celebrated as a cultural treasure. (Source: Freepik)

Mastering Huiyen Lallong: techniques and skill

Huiyen Lallong is a dynamic martial art that incorporates a diverse range of techniques and skills, Rai says. “Practitioners learn various strikes, kicks, blocks, and grappling maneuvers, all executed with precision and fluidity.”

The key techniques include:

Thengou Palba (Sword and Shield): A signature aspect of Huiyen Lallong, warriors train with a traditional sword (thang) and shield (chung) to develop offensive and defensive skills.

Sarit Sarak (Unarmed Combat): Practitioners learn to use their bodies as weapons, employing strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws to neutralize opponents.

Kanglon Chatpa (Leaping and Kicking): The art form emphasises acrobatic movements and high kicks, adding a spectacular visual element to the combat style.

Thaomei (Spear Fighting): Training with the spear (thaomei) hones agility, accuracy, and the ability to strike from a distance.

Meditation and Breathing Exercises: Huiyen Lallong incorporates meditative practices to cultivate mental focus, calmness, and inner strength.

Difference from other martial art forms 

Rai states, “Huiyen Lallong stands apart from other martial arts due to its unique blend of combat techniques, spiritual philosophy, and cultural significance. Unlike many modern martial arts that focus primarily on competition and self-defense, Huiyen Lallong emphasises holistic development.” 

Training in Huiyen Lallong is not just about physical fitness but also about mental discipline, spiritual growth, and cultural awareness.

The philosophy of Huiyen Lallong is rooted in the Manipuri concept of Thang-Ta, says Rai, which encompasses the harmony of body, mind, and spirit. It emphasises respect, humility, and the use of force only for self-defense or the protection of others.

The combat style is characterised by its fluidity, agility, and adaptability. It combines elements of striking, grappling, and weapons-based combat, making it a versatile and effective system for self-defense.

Benefits of training in Huiyen Lallong

According to Rai Practitioners of Huiyen Lallong can reap a wide range of benefits, both physical and mental:

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