In a heartening turn of events amidst the turmoil caused by the ongoing violence in Manipur, which has left thousands homeless and seeking refuge in relief camps, two children who have endured the loss of their homes are set to inspire the nation.
Lourembam Anjali Devi and Chanambam Langlen Chanu, hailing from Moreh Ward No. 5 and Ekou Sadu Koireng respectively, have been chosen to represent Manipur in the upcoming 3rd Sub Junior Boys and Girls National Boxing Championship 2024.
Their selection serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with the aftermath of the devastation, as they demonstrate resilience and determination to rise above adversity. Anjali Devi and Langlen Chanu have been undergoing rigorous residential boxing training at the Sarita Regional Boxing Academy, an institution established by renowned boxing figure Laishram Sarita and her husband Thoiba.
In a remarkable display of solidarity and compassion, Sarita and Thoiba have been offering free residential boxing training to children sheltered in relief camps across the state. Their initiative not only imparts valuable athletic skills but also instills a sense of purpose and resilience among the young participants, offering them a glimpse of a brighter future amidst the ongoing challenges.
The selection of Anjali Devi and Langlen Chanu to represent Manipur in the national championship resonates deeply with the community, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people in the face of adversity. Their participation not only showcases their talent and dedication but also symbolizes hope and perseverance for many others enduring hardship in the aftermath of the violence that has plagued Manipur for over nine months.
Organized in association with the U.P. Boxing Association, the championship is scheduled to take place from 18th to 25th March 2024 at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. As the nation rallies behind these young athletes, their journey serves as a reminder of the transformative power of sport and the unwavering human spirit in overcoming challenges and forging a path towards a better tomorrow.
Sarita and Thoiba expressed their profound happiness for selecting Anjali and Langlen to participate in the said championship. The couple wished them a great success in their future endeavour.
It may be mentioned that Sarita Regional Boxing Academy, an institute run by boxing legend Laishram Sarita and her husband Thoiba from last 2012 at Mayang Imphal is contributing their humanitarian support during the crisis.
A team of this institute travel from one relief camp to another to find out affected children who are interested in boxing. The academy started such noble act of providing free training for boxing from early part of crisis and still continuing to date.
An administrator of the institute, ChongthamThoiba said that pondering about the trauma which children may go though, their initiative was taken up. The institute was overwhelmed of getting the opportunity to play at least some role during this heart wrenching crisis through sports.
A team of this academy have been visiting relief camps residing in different locations to figure out children who have interest in boxing. As an outcome of their effort, 13 children of various ages have turn up to avail the facility. Most of them are between 10 to 15 from worst affected places like Moreh, Ikou, Wangoo, Motbung etc. They all are staying in the boarding of the academy and are pursuing free coaching for boxing.
The writer is an award winning reporter
