PAOMATA, Jan 3: The much-anticipated 59th Annual Sports Meet of the Liyai (Zhaimai) Youth & Students’ Union (LYSU) officially began with an exciting opening ceremony, marking the start of a week filled with athletic competition and cultural celebration. The event, hosted by village chief D. Paoyu, kicked off in a festive atmosphere, setting the tone for a week of spirited sportsmanship and unity.
The opening day featured a series of engaging activities, with Mr. J David Khozii and Ms. A Roziine serving as the comperes. The ceremony included a blessing and flag hoisting by the village chief, followed by a welcome song from A Zhaiziine. The LYSU President also delivered a speech, introducing the event and its significance. The festivities continued with a special musical performance by artists L Dominic and S Chani, adding to the celebration. The lighting of the torch was carried out by Th Hriiveilou and J Rosilla Rose. The contingents took their oath and the ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from the LYSU General Secretary, followed by the official declaration of the sports week by the Village Chairman.
In his keynote address, H. Veisho Optimism, the District Coordinator of Skills for Senapati and Kangpokpi under MSRLM, Dept. of RD & PR, Govt. of Manipur, emphasized the importance of youth involvement in sports and cultural activities. He spoke about how such events foster holistic development, urging the youth to strive for excellence both on and off the field. His inspiring message resonated deeply with the audience, motivating young athletes to push their limits.
The sports meet, which runs from January 3 to January 8, features a wide range of events, including football, volleyball, basketball, and more. The excitement will also extend to the Zhaimai Got Talent segment, where local performers will showcase their unique abilities and talents.
One of the highlights of the event was a vibrant Musical Night, where local talents took center stage, blending modern rhythms with traditional melodies. The musical extravaganza not only marked the start of the sports week but also brought the community together in a spirit of joy and camaraderie.
The Musical Night will also feature a star-studded lineup with performances from renowned artists such as Lovingson Lanah, B Rakoveine, and Charani Kim. Other local talents, including V Ngaono, B Pavei James, S Chani, L Dominic, R Zhaiveine, J Valley Rose, A Zhaidziine, TH Moses, and the Seasonal Band, will also light up the stage with their performances.
This year’s Musical Night promises to be an unforgettable evening of joy, cultural celebration, and entertainment, uniting the community and honoring the achievements of the youth during the sports meet.
The Liyai (Zhaimai) Youth & Students’ Union continues to build on its legacy of nurturing local talent and strengthening community ties through this annual event, which has become a key fixture on the village’s cultural calendar.