Origin of Polo

The game of polo (Sagol Kangjei) was invented during the reign of King Kangba (1405 BC-1359BC), the successor of Tangja Leela Pakhangba.[9] This remarkable achievement was recorded in many ancient scriptures including the Kangbalon and the Kangjeirol.[9]

An ancient polo ground inside the Kangla.

Marjing, the deity invented the game of polo according to Meitei mythology (Manipuri mythology). He rides on Samadon Ayangba, the flying winged horse, created by Sanamahi, from the moon land. It is Marjing, who laid on the rules and regulations for the game of polo according to Meitei religion (Sanamahism). Interestingly, it is notable that Marjing is the only god in the world, who is associated with the polo. No other religions of the world have the god of polo except Meitei religion.[10][10][11][12][13]

The International Museum of the Horse unveiled an exhibition on Manipur's history of polo and polo pony, in the Kentucky Horse Park, in Lexington, USA.[14]

After continuous debates regarding the origin of the polo, an Italian author Fulvio Cinquinni settled the doubt once and for all. For these, he visited Imphal to collect adequate historical documents and materials for book on the game.[15]