SHILLONG: Moist air from the Bay of Bengal has begun to settle over Shillong, bringing with it the familiar unpredictability of the season, sudden thunderstorms, gusty winds, misty fog and bursts of heat, all within a single day. Yet, in the midst of such shifting weather, a group of young students worked relentlessly for weeks to ensure that an important event did not falter.
Members of the Shillong Manipuri Students Union (SMSU) were engaged in preparations that extended far beyond the field. From organising Thoubal, a traditional Meitei folk dance and raising funds, to reaching out to various tribal communities from Manipur, the process required constant coordination. Even hours before the programme began, members were clearing storm debris, setting up decorations and arranging activities for participants.
Their collective effort culminated in the Golden Jubilee Sports Meet 2026, held at Malki Ground under the theme, “Celebrating five decades of teamwork, dedication and unity.”
While the event was centred on sports, its significance went beyond competition. At a time when conversations around Manipur are often marked by division, SMSU sought to create a space rooted in unity. Communities that had rarely gathered together in recent years responded positively. Members of the Rongmei, Tangkhul, Paomei and Zeliangrong communities, along with participants from the Khasi community, came together on one field, not as separate groups, but as part of a shared moment.
Football formed the highlight of the event, with five teams competing for the trophy: Tangkhul Katamnao Long Shillong and Khokha FC representing the Tangkhul community, Rongmei Chamnah from the Rongmei community, Meitan Araba representing the Meitei community, and Ksan Rngiew from the Khasi community. The final match saw a competitive face-off between the two Tangkhul teams, with Khokha FC eventually securing the winning goal.
The sports meet also extended beyond football. Activities such as the 100-metre spoon race, musical chairs, blind hit and stop dance saw enthusiastic participation from women and children, turning the ground into a lively and inclusive space.
Behind this atmosphere was the often unseen labour of student organisers. The students were working towards a message that reflects what many in this generation hope for—greater inclusivity. While the effort was significant, support remains largely unstructured, leaving the weight of such a vision to rest on too few shoulders. A small number of individuals, including a few mothers present on the field, played a quiet but crucial role in helping bring the event to life.
As External Affairs Secretary Sheetal Kshetrimayum puts it, “If somebody does not take a stand for students, who will?” Her words reflect a larger responsibility that student unions carry in not just organising events, but in representing and supporting their peers.
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Student unions like SMSU therefore serve a purpose far beyond organising programmes. For many students, these unions are a home away from home. President Sweta Tourangbam emphasised the importance of continuing this legacy, seeing her role as carrying forward what previous generations of students built through collective effort.
The need for such support systems is also reflected in more serious situations. Women’s Assistant Secretary Nibia Oinam noted that students, particularly girls, have approached the union in cases of harassment or assault, where the union has stepped in to assist and even pursue legal action. These instances highlight how unions function not only as organisers, but as protectors and advocates.
The origins of SMSU itself reflect this spirit. Five decades ago, when the body of a deceased Meitei individual could not be taken back to Manipur due to financial constraints, students came together to ensure that he was sent home. That act of unity laid the foundation for what the union represents today.
At the same time, sustaining such efforts is not without challenges. Limited financial resources mean that student organisations often depend on contributions and small fundraising initiatives. In such circumstances, even simple acts such as participating in events, being punctual, offering support can significantly ease the burden on organisers.
Ultimately, the Golden Jubilee Sports Meet stands as a reminder that unity is not merely an idea, but something that is built through consistent, collective effort.
In a separate but equally significant development, this spirit of representation extends beyond the local community. A.S. Hungkhayai from Hungpung Village, who currently serves as the Games and Sports Secretary of the TKLS, has been selected to participate in the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, to be held from March 25 to April 6 in Chhattisgarh. He will compete in the 10,000-metre race.
His selection comes at a time when a dedicated national platform for tribal athletes is being recognised under the Khelo India initiative. It not only marks a personal achievement, but also reflects the strength of the communities and support systems that continue to nurture such talent.
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