Muyathai, the Nationalsports of Thailand has quietly made inroads in India by spreading its wings differentparts of the country, including J&K, in an organised way.
The ancient martial art ofThailand, Muaythai has been gaining popularity in the Union Territory ofJ&K under the aegis of Muaythai Association of J&K.
“The Muaythai Associationof J&K has introduced the game in as many as six districts in a short spanof three years. Soon after getting recognition in 2022, we have introduced thegame in districts of Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Reasi, Rajouri and Udhampur byestablishing working units. In Jammu, an Muaythai training academy has beenestablished wherein youngsters have started showing keen interest,” informed presidentof the Association, Amit Singh.
Historical Significance
With its rich history,cultural significance and physical benefits, Muathai has become favourite amongthe Indian martial arts enthusiasts.
Muaythai originated over2000 years ago as a form of hand-to-hand combat. Over time, Muaythai evolvedinto a sport, with the first formal rules being established.
Legendary Connection
In Hindu mythology, LordAnuman is revered for his extraordinary strength, agility and martial prowess.Lord Hanuman is often depicted as a powerful and agile warrior, possessingextraordinary strength. Lord Hanuman’s mastery of Vajra (thunderbolt) can beseen as a parallel to the dynamic movements and powerful strikes found in Muaythai.
Growth of in India
Muaythai was firstintroduced in India in the 1970s and 1980s, primarily, through Thak culturalexchange programme. It was in 1990 that Muaythai started gaining popularity inIndia, particularly in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore , North East andRajasthan. In 2007, United Muaythai Association of India (UMAI) got recognitionby the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). The UMAI has been instrumental in promoting Muaythai, with 28 states andthree Union Territories affiliated to it. Currently, 12 states have recognisedMuaythai associations with their respective state Olympic bodies. Further,seven state associations have been recognised by the State Government.
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