Manipur’s Majestic Gift of Polo to the World

FROM SAGOL KANGJEI TO POLO 

India—more specifically Manipur—gifted the world one of its most majestic and aristocratic games: Polo, in its modern form. Long before it became a symbol of royalty and leisure in the West, Polo was played on the lush plains of Manipur as Sagol Kangjei, a sport deeply woven into the social, cultural, and spiritual fabric of Manipuri life.

Meaning and Origins of Sagol Kangjei: The term Sagol Kangjei comes from the Manipuri language—Sagol meaning pony, and Kangjei meaning a game played with sticks. Thus, Sagol Kangjei literally translates to “a game played on ponies using sticks.”

Although the exact origins of the game remain a subject of historical debate, references to Sagol Kangjei can be traced back to ancient times. According to the Royal Chronicle of Manipur (Cheitharol Kumbaba), the game was introduced by King Kangba, who ruled Manipur around 33 CE. Initially enjoyed by princes and members of royal families, the sport was also used as training for warfare.

A Game of Skill, Speed, and Warfare: In its early form, Sagol Kangjei was not merely a sport but a military exercise. Princes practiced throwing the Arambai—a deadly dart with iron heads often decorated with peacock feathers—while riding swiftly on horseback. This sharpened their riding skills, coordination, and combat readiness.

Players rode a special and hardy breed known as the Manipuri Pony, renowned for its endurance, agility, and intelligence. These ponies were perfectly suited to the fast-paced and physically demanding nature of the game.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance: Ponies hold a sacred place in Manipuri society and mythology. They are associated with Marjing, a revered deity believed to be the protector of horses. Even today, Polo sticks and balls are offered to the deity during worship, reflecting the spiritual reverence attached to the sport.

The cultural importance of Sagol Kangjei is also evident in Lai Haraoba, one of Manipur’s most significant festivals. During the celebrations, a ritual dance portrays a bride searching for her groom, holding a Polo stick, symbolising the sport’s deep-rooted presence in Manipuri life and traditions.

From Sagol Kangjei to Modern Polo: The unique sport caught the attention of British colonial rulers in the 19th century when they witnessed it being played in the plains of Cachar (present-day Assam). Fascinated, the British adapted and standardised the game, modifying its rules and structure.

Thus was born Modern Polo, typically played between two teams of seven players each, with defined goalposts and standardised equipment. From India, the game spread to England and eventually to countries across Europe, the Americas, and beyond.

Traditional Sagol Kangjei vs Modern Polo: Traditional Sagol Kangjei differs significantly from its modern counterpart:

● Players rode bareback, without saddles or reins

● The game was played barefoot

● There were no goalposts; goals were scored by hitting the ball past either end of the field

● The ball was traditionally made from bamboo roots, unlike the synthetic balls used worldwide today

● These elements made Sagol Kangjei a raw, thrilling, and intensely skilled sport.

Mapal Kangjeibung: The Oldest Polo Ground

The heart of Polo in Manipur lies in Mapal Kangjeibung, located in Imphal. Recognised as the oldest polo ground in the world, it stands as a living testament to Manipur’s enduring polo heritage.

Every year, during the 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival held in the last week of November, an International Polo Tournament takes place here. Teams from countries such as the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, Thailand, and several others participate, celebrating Manipur’s timeless legacy.

A Living Heritage: Sagol Kangjei is not just the origin of modern Polo—it is a living heritage, a symbol of Manipuri identity, resilience, and cultural pride. In an age where Polo is often seen as an elite sport, its roots in Manipur remind the world of a tradition born from community, courage, and cultural continuity.

Manipur did not merely play Polo—it gave the world a game that continues to inspire grace, discipline, and sportsmanship across continents.

Subhashitam

DISCERNMENT

उपदेशो हि मूर्खाणां प्रकोपाय न शान्तये।

पयःपानं भुज गानां केवलं विषवर्धनं॥

Repetition of truth to the unwise only feeds their wrath. Words are weapons in wrong hands. Milk to serpents is not kindness — it’s fuel for their sting.

Translation

"Advice given to fools only serves to provoke them and does not bring peace; just as milk given to a snake only increases its venom."

Context

This shloka is typically used in discussions about wisdom, knowledge, and the futility of trying to advise individuals who lack understanding or are unwilling to accept guidance. It is relevant in educational, philosophical, and moral contexts, emphasising the importance of discernment in addressing foolishness.

Detailed Explanation

The shloka articulates a profound observation about the nature of advising foolish individuals. The first part notes that offering counsel or direction (उपदेशो) to those classified as मूर्खाणां (fools) will not yield beneficial results but will instead incite their anger (प्रकोपाय). Such advice does not bring about शान्तये (peace).

The second part draws a metaphor with the example of पयः (milk) being offered to a [भुज गानां] (snakes). The act of giving milk does not pacify the snake; instead, it enhances its natural venom (विषवर्धनं), leading to greater harm. This metaphor strongly conveys that attempts to placate or educate the foolish can lead to greater hostility or complications.

Significance

This shloka is important as it teaches that wisdom lies in choosing the right recipients for advice. It warns against futile attempts to change or educate those who are obstinately ignorant. The lesson emphasises the value of appropriateness in counsel-giving and reflects on the broader theme of ensuring that educational or enlightening efforts are directed toward willing and capable learners. Furthermore, it highlights that sometimes, serving certain entities (like the snake) could exacerbate underlying issues rather than resolve them, encouraging a careful evaluation of context and readiness to accept guidance.

The Sage and the Scorpion

In a quiet village by the forest lived an elderly sage, known for his wisdom and compassion. People from faraway places came to seek his guidance. The sage believed in sharing knowledge, but he also believed in discernment.

One day, a scorpion fell into a river near the ashram. Seeing it struggle, the sage lowered a leaf to help it climb out. As soon as the scorpion reached the surface, it stung the sage’s finger.

A disciple cried out, “Gurudev! Why help it again? It harmed you!”

Ignoring the pain, the sage tried once more. Again, the scorpion stung him. Blood trickled down the sage’s hand. The disciple, now angry, said,

“You are giving kindness where it is not understood. Your help only strengthens its cruelty.”

The sage paused. He gently placed a wooden plank on the water surface so that the scorpion could crawl out without touching him. Once free, the scorpion disappeared into the bushes.

Turning to the disciple, the sage said,

“Compassion should never blind wisdom. If my hand becomes the reason for harm, I must change the method—or step away.”

Later that evening, a proud villager came to the ashram. He asked for advice but mocked every suggestion, arguing loudly and twisting every word to prove himself right. The disciple waited for the sage to respond.

But this time, the sage remained silent.

The disciple asked, “Why help the scorpion and not speak to this man?”

The sage replied calmly:

“Milk nourishes the body, but poured into poison, it only strengthens the venom. Advice is the same. When the mind is closed, words become fuel for anger.”

Moral (linked directly to the shloka)

उपदेशो हि मूर्खाणां प्रकोपाय न शान्तये।

पयःपानं भुजगानां केवलं विषवर्धनम्॥

Advice given to the unwise does not bring peace—it provokes anger, just as milk fed to a snake only increases its poison.

Discernment means the ability to judge well—to understand things clearly and make wise, thoughtful decisions, especially in situations where the right choice is not obvious.

Simple Meaning

Discernment = knowing what is right, appropriate, or necessary in a given situation

In Easy Words

It is the skill of thinking carefully, seeing the difference between right and wrong, and deciding when to act, speak, or remain silent.

Example

A teacher explains a concept in detail to a curious student but chooses silence when someone only wants to argue. This is discernment.

Offering advice only to those willing to listen shows discernment.

In the Context of the Shloka:

Discernment teaches us that not everyone is ready to receive advice. Wisdom lies not just in speaking truth, but in knowing when, how, and to whom to speak.

A Fun Fact About Shakespeare’s Time

The Story of the Letter “J”

Did you know that the letter J was not always part of the English alphabet?

In fact, during Shakespeare’s time, people did not use the letter J the way we do today. The alphabet we know now has a long and interesting history!

Life Before the Letter “J”

Long ago, the letters I and J were considered the same letter.

The letter I was used for:

the vowel sound (as in ink), and

the consonant sound that we now write as J (as in jam).

Because of this, many words looked very different from how we write them today. For example:

Juliet was written as Iuliet

Jesus was written as Iesus

John was written as Iohn

To us, these spellings look strange, but at that time, they were perfectly normal.

How Did the Letter “J” Begin?

As handwriting and printing developed, scribes and printers began adding a small tail to the letter I in certain positions. This decorative or “fancy I” slowly developed into the shape we now recognize as J.

However, even though the shape existed, it was still not treated as a separate letter of the alphabet.

Separating I and J

In 1524, an Italian scholar named Gian Giorgio Trissino suggested an important idea:

Use I for the vowel sound

Use J for the consonant sound

This idea spread across Europe, but languages—especially English—were slow to change.

When Did “J” Become a Real Letter?

The change happened gradually:

During the 1600s, some English books began using J regularly.

By the early 1700s, English finally accepted J as a separate letter.

That is how the English alphabet became the 26-letter alphabet we use today.

Did Shakespeare Use the Letter “J”?

William Shakespeare, who died in 1616, lived during this time of change.

He saw the shape J, but it was not yet a fully accepted letter. In his time, I and J were still often mixed together in writing.

Why Is This Important?

The story of the letter J teaches us that:

Language is always changing

Even the alphabet has a history

What seems normal to us today was once very different

The next time you write the letter J, remember—you are using one of the youngest letters in the English alphabet!

India’s Golden Glory

A HISTORIC WIN AT THE ICC WOMEN’S WORLD CUP 2025

On 2 November 2025, the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai glowed like a festival lantern as India’s women’s cricket team carved their name into history. With a 52-run victory over South Africa, India lifted their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, turning years of hope, heartbreak, and hard work into a shining moment of triumph.

This win didn’t simply add a trophy to India’s cabinet — it scripted a fresh chapter in Indian sport, one bursting with determination, courage, and national pride.

The Grand Finale: A Night to Remember

Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, India posted a powerful total of 298 runs. When South Africa began their chase, India’s bowlers brought a storm of skill and strategy, bundling them out for 246.

This triumph was even sweeter because India had reached the finals before — 2005 and 2017 — but narrowly missed the title. In 2025, the wait finally ended.

This final was also unique — for the first time ever, the Women’s World Cup title clash featured neither Australia nor England, the traditional giants of the sport.

National Pride Overflowing

Following their victory, the team met:

● Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised them for their “remarkable resilience and comeback”.

● President Droupadi Murmu, who congratulated them at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The BCCI further announced a ₹5 crore cash reward for the players, coaches, and support staff — a gesture honouring a victory that will inspire generations.

Record-Breaking Performances That Lit Up the Tournament

● Shafali Verma – Player of the Match (Final)

Record: Youngest Indian to win Player of the Match in a World Cup final

Shafali unleashed fireworks with 87 runs off 78 balls and grabbed two wickets when it mattered the most. Her fearless all-round show made her the youngest Indian—man or woman—to win this honour.

● Deepti Sharma – Player of the Tournament

Record: Most wickets by an Indian in a single Women’s World Cup

With 22 wickets in nine matches, Deepti stormed past the previous Indian record of 20 wickets. Her sensational five-wicket haul in the final sealed India’s win and earned her the top tournament award.

● Jemimah Rodrigues – The Semi-final Star

Record: First Indian woman to score a century in a World Cup semi-final

In a breathtaking knock, Jemimah smashed an unbeaten 127 against Australia, leading India to a record chase of 338. Her innings carried India straight into the final.

● Richa Ghosh – The Wall Behind the Stumps

Record: Most dismissals by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Women’s World Cup

Richa collected 15 dismissals (12 catches + 3 stumpings) and hammered 12 sixes, matching the all-time record for most sixes in a single Women’s World Cup edition.

● Smriti Mandhana & Shafali Verma – A Historic Opening Stand

Record: Highest partnership by an Indian pair in a Women’s World Cup final

The duo stitched together a superb 104-run stand, giving India a dream start in the final.

● Smriti Mandhana – Run Machine of the Tournament

Record: Most runs by an Indian in a Women’s World Cup

Smriti scored an outstanding 434 runs, surpassing Mithali Raj’s previous record of 409 (2017).

Did You Know?

● The Women’s Cricket World Cup began in 1973, two years before the men’s version.

● The 2025 edition was the 13th Women's World Cup, hosted mainly by India, with some matches in Sri Lanka.

● India became the first host nation to win their maiden Women’s World Cup title at home.

● The 2025 tournament featured 12 teams, including debutants like Thailand, showcasing how women’s cricket is expanding globally.

● Viewership records were shattered — the final became the most-watched women’s cricket match in history.

A Win Beyond Cricket

India’s Women’s World Cup victory of 2025 is more than a sporting achievement — it’s a story of grit, possibility, and rising wings. Little girls across the country watched these champions and found a mirror reflecting their own dreams.

From the opening batter’s roar to the last wicket’s tumble, the Indian team showed that belief can turn into brilliance — and brilliance can become history.

This is India’s golden glory — a triumph that will shimmer through time. 🌟🇮🇳🏆

Trailblazers on Wheels

NOTABLE INDIAN WOMEN IN MOTORSPORT 

Motorsport has long been a male-dominated field—but over the years, several Indian women have broken barriers, refusing to be left behind. From rally racing to karting to circuit racing, these women are making their mark. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring names in Indian motorsport.

1. Diana Pundole

Why she’s famous: Recently, Diana made history as the first Indian woman to race a Ferrari internationally, competing in the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East in a Ferrari 296 Challenge. 

In 2024, she became the first Indian woman to win a national car racing championship — she clinched the MRF Saloon Cars title at the Madras International Circuit. 

Her racing journey began in 2018 through the JK Tyre Women in Motorsport talent hunt. 

She has raced on international tracks like Monza, Mugello, and the Dubai Autodrome, showing that Indian women can compete on the global stage. 

Diana balances her life as a mother of two with her passion for racing — a true role model for ambition and resilience. 

2. Aishwarya Pissay

Why she’s inspiring: Aishwarya is a two-wheeler racer—specialising in circuit racing, off-road, and rally—and holds multiple national and international titles. 

She won the FIM Bajas World Cup in the women’s category, making her the first Indian motorsports athlete to win a world title. 

On the national scene, she has seven FMSCI National titles, including six consecutive rally championship wins (INRC) from 2017 onwards. 

She’s not just dominating on Indian terrain — she was the first Indian woman to compete in Baja Aragón, a tough rally held in Spain. 

3. Bani Yadav

Why she stands out: Dr. Bani Yadav is one of India’s most experienced female rally drivers. 

She’s won major cross-country rally titles in India, even when competing in women-only categories, and has been a strong advocate for gender equality in motorsport. 

Notably, she is among the first Indian women to drive Formula 4 cars outside India, at the Abu Dhabi Yas Marina Circuit. 

Her story is even more inspiring because she started rallying seriously later in life and overcame a serious back injury to come back strong. 

4. Sneha Sharma

Her claim to fame: Sneha is both a racing driver and an airline pilot — quite a combination! 

She started karting very young, and by her late teens, she was racing in national-level championships like the JK Tyre National Racing Championship. 

Beyond racing, she’s known for breaking stereotypes — showing that women can thrive in high-speed motorsport as well as in the skies.

5. Atiqa Mir

Youngest rising star: Atiqa Mir (born in 2014 in Srinagar) is a kart racer who’s already making big waves. 

She became the first Indian and Asian female racer selected for the Formula 1 Academy’s “Discover Your Drive” development programme. 

In karting, she’s not just participating — she’s winning: she took vice-champion in the UAE IAME National Championship and podium finishes in international kart events. 

Why their stories matter

These women are more than just racers — they are icons of change. Here’s why their journeys are powerful:

Breaking Barriers: From circuit racing to rallying and karting, they show that motorsport is not just a “men’s game.”

Inspiring the Next Generation: Young girls looking at them see possibilities. If Diana can race a Ferrari internationally, why can’t they?

Building Ecosystems: Their success helps create more visibility, support, sponsorship, and infrastructure for women in Indian motorsport.

Changing Mindsets: In a country where motorsports is still niche, each win, each milestone challenges gender stereotypes.

Final Thoughts

From Diana Pundole’s historic Ferrari race to Aishwarya Pissay’s world titles and Atiqa Mir’s karting brilliance, Indian women in motorsport are writing a new chapter. Their stories teach us about passion, perseverance, and the courage to race against the odds.

Motorsport in India is changing — fast — and these women are in the driver’s seat.

From Player to Professional

🎮 THE JOURNEY TO BECOMING AN ESPORTS ATHLETE 

Is it possible to become an Athlete by playing Computer Games?

“Can you really become an athlete just by playing computer games?”

This question might sound strange, but the answer is yes — through esports, or electronic sports!

Once seen as a hobby, computer gaming has evolved into a global sporting phenomenon. Today, esports tournaments fill stadiums, attract millions of viewers online, and even offer prize pools worth millions of dollars.

⚡ What Is Esports?

Esports stands for electronic sports. It refers to organised, competitive gaming where players — called cyberathletes, gamers, or esports athletes — compete either individually or in teams.

Matches can be one-on-one or between teams of 2, 3, 4, or 5 players. Each game has its own rules and objectives, and the team that earns the most points or defeats all opponents wins the tournament.

🧠 Skills Needed for Esports

Esports requires much more than just playing for fun. Top players develop abilities such as:

● Quick thinking and decision-making

● Strategic planning and teamwork

● Excellent hand-eye coordination

● Strong focus and mental endurance

Just like footballers wear cleats or swimmers need goggles, esports players use special gaming mice, keyboards, and monitors designed for precision and speed.

🚀 How to Become an Esports Athlete

Most professional esports players begin their journey in their teenage years — often around 16 or 17 — though some start earlier. If you dream of becoming one, here’s the pathway:

1. Choose Your Game

Pick a game you’re passionate about and research its competitive scene. Examples include League of Legends, Valorant, PUBG Mobile, FIFA, or Fortnite.

2. Train Regularly

Professional players practise for 6 to 10 hours daily, combining gameplay with tactical study, physical exercise, and mental preparation.

3. Join a Team or Club

Teamwork is crucial. Playing with others helps improve communication and strategy. Join online tournaments or local esports clubs to gain experience.

4. Maintain Physical and Mental Health

Long gaming hours can cause eye strain or posture issues. Professional players follow balanced diets, do stretching exercises, and limit screen time.

5. Participate in Tournaments

Start with small competitions and move on to larger leagues. Winning gives recognition, ranking points, and sometimes sponsorship opportunities.

6. Stay Consistent and Patient

Success in esports, like in any sport, takes time, discipline, and continuous learning.

🕹️ Popular Esports Game Categories

Esports titles must meet the SCAR factors — Skill, Community, Accessibility, and Reward.

Here are five major genres of esports games:

MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) – Teams of five battle to destroy the opponent’s base. (Example: League of Legends, Dota 2)

FPS (First-Person Shooter) – Players aim and shoot from their character’s viewpoint. Reflexes are vital. (Example: Counter-Strike, Valorant)

Battle Royale – Dozens compete on one map until only one player or team survives. (Example: Fortnite, PUBG)

Fighter Games – One-on-one combat using chosen characters and moves. (Example: Tekken, Street Fighter)

Sports Simulation Games – Virtual versions of real sports such as football or basketball. (Example: FIFA, NBA 2K)

🩺 Health and Lifestyle Balance

While gaming enhances reflexes and coordination, too much screen time can cause eye strain, back pain, or sleep problems. Esports coaches ensure players follow:

● Proper posture and ergonomic setups

● Regular exercise and stretching

● Sufficient rest and hydration

● Balanced nutrition

Maintaining good health keeps performance high and prevents burnout.

🌐 Beyond Playing: Careers in Esports

Esports isn’t only about competing. Many professionals also work as:

● Game streamers or commentators on platforms like YouTube or Twitch

● Coaches and analysts for teams

● Event organisers and content creators

● Game designers and developers

The industry is expanding fast, creating opportunities across technology, media, and entertainment.

🏆 A Growing Global Sport

Esports is now recognised as a legitimate sport in many countries.

Large tournaments like The International (Dota 2) or League of Legends World Championship attract global audiences of millions. Some universities even offer esports scholarships!

However, like any sport, it demands discipline, balance, and education. Only a small percentage of players reach the top, so young gamers should also focus on academics and healthy lifestyles.

💡 Did You Know?

🎮 The first recorded esports tournament was held in 1972 at Stanford University for the game Spacewar!.

💰 The largest prize pool in esports history was over $40 million for Dota 2: The International 2021.

🌍 The global esports audience crossed 500 million viewers in recent years!

🌟 Conclusion

Yes, it’s truly possible to become an athlete by playing computer games — but not without hard work and commitment.

Esports athletes train their minds and reflexes just like traditional athletes train their bodies. With the right mindset, balance, and guidance, gaming can turn from a hobby into a professional sporting career.

So, if you love gaming — play smart, stay healthy, and aim for excellence. Who knows? You might be the next world esports champion!

⚠️ WORDS OF CAUTION FOR STUDENTS ABOUT ESPORTS 

1. Maintain a Balance:

Playing for long hours can affect studies, health, and social life. Always balance gaming time with schoolwork, physical activity, and rest.

2. Avoid Addiction:

Esports can be engaging, but excessive gaming may lead to addiction, anxiety, or poor academic performance. Set clear time limits for gameplay.

3. Health Concerns:

Sitting for long periods can cause eye strain, poor posture, and fatigue. Take regular breaks, stretch, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

4. Online Safety:

Be careful while interacting online. Avoid sharing personal information, and report any bullying or toxic behavior immediately.

5. Financial Risks:

Not all esports careers are guaranteed or profitable. Don’t spend money on gaming equipment or tournaments without proper planning or parental guidance.

6. Education Comes First:

A solid education is important even if you dream of a career in esports. Many professional players continue studies in fields like game design, management, or IT.

7. Mental Well-being:

High competition and pressure can lead to stress. Always prioritise mental health and take breaks when needed.

8. Choose the Right Path:

If you truly wish to pursue esports, learn about the industry—its structure, required skills, and career options such as coaching, commentary, or event management.

The Fast-Paced Game of Skill and Stamina

SQUASH 

Squash is one of the fastest indoor racket sports in the world, demanding agility, strategy, and lightning-quick reflexes. Played within a four-walled court, it is a thrilling test of both physical fitness and mental sharpness.

Origin and History: The game of squash originated in the early 19th century at Harrow School in England. It evolved from an older game called rackets, where players hit a ball against walls. Students noticed that a punctured ball, which “squashed” when it hit the wall, offered a more challenging and exciting game—thus the name squash was born.

Over time, the sport spread to other countries, and by the 20th century, squash courts were being built across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. Today, it is played in over 185 countries.

The Court and Equipment: A squash court is a rectangular, four-walled room with a wooden floor and marked boundaries.

The front wall has service lines and a lower “tin” area (similar to a net in tennis).

Players use a lightweight racket, slightly smaller than a tennis racket.

The ball is small, hollow, and made of rubber — it comes in different types based on speed and bounce (indicated by coloured dots).

Rules of the Game:

● Squash is played either singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two teams of two).

● The players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, ensuring it lands above the tin and below the outline.

● The ball can bounce once on the floor before being returned.

● A rally continues until one player fails to make a valid return.

● Matches are usually played to the best of five games, and each game is played to 11 points.

● Scoring is based on the Point-a-Rally (PAR) system, where every rally results in a point, regardless of who serves.

Skills and Fitness: Squash is known for its intensity. A top-level match can burn up to 1000 calories per hour!

It helps improve: speed and endurance, hand-eye coordination, flexibility and balance, strategic thinking

Players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and control the game’s pace through clever shot placement.

Major Tournaments and Players: 

Some of the most prestigious squash events include:

The British Open

The PSA World Championships

The U.S. Open

The Egyptian Open

Countries like Egypt, England, Pakistan, and Malaysia have produced many world champions such as Jahangir Khan, Jansher Khan, Nicol David, and Ali Farag.

Squash in India: Squash has gained popularity in India in recent years. Indian players like Saurav Ghosal, Joshna Chinappa, and Dipika Pallikal Karthik have achieved international success.

Several schools and clubs now offer squash facilities, and the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) promotes the game actively across the country.

Did You Know?

● Squash was once voted the world’s healthiest sport by Forbes magazine because it provides an all-round workout.

● The ball’s bounce changes with temperature — players often warm it up before starting!

● The word “let” is used when a rally is replayed due to accidental interference between players.

Conclusion: Squash is much more than just hitting a ball against a wall — it’s a fast, strategic, and fitness-oriented sport that sharpens both body and mind. Whether played for recreation or competition, it teaches focus, discipline, and sportsmanship. With growing awareness and facilities, squash is steadily finding its place among the popular games of the modern world.

The Game of Flying Fun and Fair Play

ULTIMATE FRISBEE 

🌟 Introduction

Imagine a sport that mixes the running of football, the passing of basketball, and the teamwork of soccer — but with a flying disc instead of a ball! That’s Ultimate Frisbee, often simply called Ultimate. It’s one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and is loved for its energy, excitement, and emphasis on fair play.

⚙️ What Is Ultimate Frisbee?

Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact team sport played with a flying disc. Two teams compete to score points by catching the disc in the opponent’s end zone. What makes Ultimate unique is that players cannot run with the disc — they must pass it to move it forward.

🏃‍♂️ How to Play

Each team has seven players on the field.

The game starts with a “pull”, which is like a kickoff — one team throws the disc to the other.

Players pass the disc from one to another, trying to reach the end zone to score.

If the disc is dropped, intercepted, or goes out of bounds, the other team gains possession.

The first team to reach the set number of points (usually 15) wins!

🧭 The Field

An Ultimate Frisbee field looks similar to a football field but slightly smaller. It has:

A playing area in the middle

Two end zones at each end (where points are scored)

Standard size: 100 meters long and 37 meters wide

🤝 Spirit of the Game

Ultimate Frisbee is special because it has no referees!

Instead, it is guided by the idea of “Spirit of the Game.”

This means players must show:

Honesty in calling fouls,

Respect toward teammates and opponents, and

Good sportsmanship at all times.

Winning is important — but playing fair is even more important!

💡 Basic Rules to Remember

1. You cannot run while holding the disc.

2. You have 10 seconds to throw the disc.

3. If the disc is dropped or intercepted, it’s a turnover.

4. A point is scored when the disc is caught in the end zone.

5. Substitutions can be made after a point or during an injury timeout.

⚡ Skills and Techniques

To play Ultimate well, players learn a few key throws:

Backhand: The most common throw, like tossing a regular Frisbee.

Forehand (Flick): A quick side throw using wrist action.

Hammer: A high overhead throw that curves down.

Players also practice jumping, catching, sprinting, and defensive marking to stop opponents’ passes.

🌍 A Short History

Ultimate Frisbee began in 1968 at Columbia High School in New Jersey, USA.

From a simple student game, it spread across colleges and countries.

Today, it’s played worldwide, with official tournaments organised by the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).

It is even featured in the World Games — a major international sports event!

🇮🇳 Ultimate Frisbee in India

Ultimate Frisbee has taken off in India over the past two decades and continues to grow in popularity.

🌱 Beginnings

The game was introduced around 2004–2005 by expats and students who had played abroad. It soon caught on in cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Auroville, where young people started forming teams and playing regularly.

🏢 Governing Body

The sport is managed by the Ultimate Players Association of India (UPAI), which promotes Ultimate across the country through tournaments, workshops, and youth programmes. UPAI is also a member of the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).

🏆 Major Indian Tournaments

Indian National Ultimate Championships (INUC) – the country’s biggest tournament.

Chennai Heat, Mumbai Ultimate Open, Bangalore Ultimate Open, and the Auroville Hat Tournament – popular national events that attract players from all over India.

🌍 India on the World Stage

India has proudly represented itself at Asian-Oceanic and World Ultimate Championships. Both men’s and women’s teams have earned praise for their sportsmanship and spirited play.

🏫 In Schools and Colleges

Many schools and universities in India have started Ultimate Frisbee clubs and use the sport to teach students about teamwork, respect, and fair play.

🌈 Fun Fact

Ultimate is also played on beaches, especially in places like Goa and Chennai, making it not just a sport but a joyful community activity that brings people together.

🏆 Major Competitions

WFDF World Ultimate Championships (held every 4 years)

World Games

National and College Championships in many countries

💪 Benefits of Playing Ultimate

Ultimate Frisbee is not only fun but also great for your health! It helps you:

Build stamina, strength, and coordination

Learn teamwork and communication

Develop honesty and leadership

Stay fit while having lots of fun

🎯 Fun Facts

● The disc used in Ultimate usually weighs 175 grams.

● Players often play barefoot on beaches in Beach Ultimate.

● Ultimate is one of the few sports that values “fair play” as much as victory!

💬 Did You Know?

⭐ The term “Frisbee” comes from the Frisbie Pie Company — students used to throw its pie tins before the plastic disc was invented!

⭐ Ultimate Frisbee is played in more than 100 countries around the world.

⭐ There’s even a professional Ultimate league in the United States.

⭐ The first-ever World Championship was held in 1983 in Sweden.

⭐ In India, Ultimate is taught in schools to promote honesty, teamwork, and self-officiation.

🌈 Conclusion

Ultimate Frisbee is more than just a game — it’s a lesson in teamwork, respect, and fairness. Whether played on grass, sand, or indoors, it teaches players to compete with spirit and integrity. So next time you see a flying disc, grab it, gather your friends, and enjoy the thrill of Ultimate Frisbee — the game where fun and fairness fly together!

A test of endurance and determination

🏃‍♀️ MARATHON 

A marathon is much more than just a long race—it's a powerful symbol of human endurance, determination, and spirit. Covering a distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles), the marathon is one of the most demanding and respected athletic events in the world.

🏛️ Historical Origin

The marathon has its roots in ancient Greece. According to legend, in 490 BCE, a Greek soldier named Pheidippides ran from the battlefield in the town of Marathon to Athens—a distance of about 40 km—to deliver news of a military victory against the Persians. After announcing the victory, he collapsed and died from exhaustion. In his honour, the marathon was introduced in the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens in 1896.

📏 How Long is a Marathon?

The official distance of a marathon is 42.195 km. This specific length was established during the 1908 London Olympics so the race could start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the royal family’s viewing box.

There are also variations:

Half Marathon – 21.097 km

Ultra Marathon – Any race longer than a full marathon

Mini-Marathon / Fun Run – Shorter distances, often for charity or beginners

🏃‍♂️ A Race of Preparation and Perseverance

Running a marathon is not just about speed—it’s about stamina, consistency, and mental strength. Participants usually train for several months, gradually increasing their distance. Along with physical fitness, hydration, nutrition, and rest play a major role in preparing for the race.

Many marathon runners say that the real challenge is not the distance, but the mental battle to keep going when the body feels like giving up.

🌍 Marathons Around the World

Today, marathons are held in cities across the globe, with thousands of runners and millions of spectators:

Boston Marathon – Oldest annual marathon, started in 1897

New York City Marathon – One of the largest, with over 50,000 runners

London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, and Tokyo Marathon – Part of the prestigious "World Marathon Majors"

India also hosts popular events like:

Tata Mumbai Marathon

Delhi Half Marathon

Kolkata Marathon

These events often raise money for charitable causes and promote health awareness.

💡 Why Do People Run Marathons?

People run marathons for many reasons:

To test their limits

To support a cause

To stay fit and motivated

To experience the joy of achieving something extraordinary

Crossing the finish line is not just a physical achievement—it’s a deeply emotional and personal victory.

✨ Conclusion

A marathon teaches us valuable life lessons: discipline, patience, courage, and resilience. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a beginner, participating in a marathon is a celebration of what the human body and mind can achieve together. It reminds us that with the right mindset and preparation, no distance is too far, and no goal is impossible.