Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, April 1, 2025: A wave of pride and celebration swept through Cachar recently as the community gathered to honour two local figures making significant strides in the international sporting arena. Sepaktakraw player Ayekpam Priya Devi and esteemed international coach Thangjam Ongbi Bidhumukhi were felicitated following their notable participation in the Sepaktakraw World Cup 2025, which recently concluded in Bihar. Their success, particularly Priya’s medal haul for India, has brought immense joy and inspiration to the region.
Understanding Sepaktakraw
For those unfamiliar, Sepaktakraw, often called kick volleyball, is a dynamic and acrobatic sport native to Southeast Asia. Played on a court similar to badminton, teams pass a rattan or synthetic ball over a net using only their feet, knees, chest, and head. The sport demands incredible flexibility, agility, and precision, making achievements at the international level particularly noteworthy.
India Shines at World Cup 2025
Representing Team India at this major international championship, Ayekpam Priya Devi delivered a stellar performance. Competing against skilled athletes from around the globe, she secured an impressive tally of one Silver medal and two Bronze medals. This remarkable achievement underscores her dedication, hard work, and the high calibre of talent emerging from India in this challenging sport. It marks a significant moment for Indian Sepaktakraw and a proud accomplishment for her home region.
A Hero’s Welcome Home
Reflecting the community’s excitement, Player Priya and Coach Bidhumukhi were greeted with a warm and enthusiastic reception upon their arrival at Silchar Railway Station. Following this initial welcome, a formal felicitation ceremony was thoughtfully organised at the Kongjengkai Kola Leima Sports Complex, a fitting venue to celebrate sporting excellence and formally recognise their outstanding contributions. The atmosphere was reported to be jubilant, filled with a strong sense of community pride.
Distinguished Guests and Community Support
The felicitation event underscored the broad support for the athletes, graced by several prominent community leaders, sports administrators, and well-wishers. Key figures present included:
- Oinam Birmani (President, RDC)
- Konthoujam Sunita (President, Women Action Committee for Village Protection)
- RK Sanahal Singha (President, All Cachar Sepak Takraw Association – ACSTA)
- L Ranjan Singha (Secretary, ACSTA)
- Rajkishore Singha (Advisor, ACSTA)
Their presence highlighted the collective effort in nurturing local talent and the importance placed on sporting achievements. Speakers at the event, including ACSTA President RK Sanahal Singha, lauded the hard work and perseverance of both the player and the coach. They emphasised the honour brought to Cachar and the broader region, acknowledging the vital role played by organizations like ACSTA and the Women Action Committee in supporting athletes.
Ceremony Highlights and Blessings
In a touching moment during the ceremony, attendees paid obeisance at the Ema Kola Leima shrine located within the complex, offering prayers for the continued success and well-being of Ayekpam Priya and Coach Bidhumukhi. President RK Sanahal Singha officially concluded the programme with further words of praise and encouragement.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Success stories like Ayekpam Priya’s, supported by dedicated coaches like Thangjam Ongbi Bidhumukhi, serve as powerful inspiration for aspiring young athletes in Cachar, Hailakandi, and beyond. Witnessing local talent excel on the world stage can ignite passion and encourage greater participation in sports like Sepaktakraw, fostering a stronger sporting culture within the community.
About the Honourees
Ayekpam Priya, the talented World Cup medalist, hails from Khunow village in Lakhipur, Cachar district. She is the daughter of Ayekpam Manikanta and Ayekpam Ongbi Padma.
Coach Thangjam Ongbi Bidhumukhi, whose guidance is instrumental, serves as an international coach specifically for women’s sepaktakraw. She is the wife of Thangjam Manindra and resides in Goalipar, Hailakandi district. Thangjam Manindra is also an international sepaktakraw coach.
The community looks forward to celebrating future successes from these dedicated individuals who continue to make the region proud.