1. NCERT faces criticism for misidentifying Manipur’s ‘Mukna Kangjei’ as a game from Mizoram.
2. The error, found in a textbook published by SCERT under NCERT, prompts demands for correction.
3. Concerned educational bodies urge swift rectification of the mistake to ensure accuracy in textbooks.
Imphal, April 29: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) recently came under fire for a glaring error in one of its textbooks, wrongly attributing Manipur’s indigenous game ‘Mukna Kangjei’ to Mizoram.
This mistake, featured in a textbook published by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) under NCERT’s purview for the academic year 2023-2024, has sparked calls for immediate corrections from concerned educational bodies.
The Physical Education Teachers’ Association of the Education (S) Department expressed deep concern over this oversight, issuing a press release urging authorities to rectify the error promptly.
They stressed the importance of accurate information in educational materials, particularly regarding cultural heritage and indigenous games.
The textbook titled “Learning through Traditional Games” includes descriptions of various indigenous games from different states.
However, on page 24, under the heading “Mizoram-Mukna Kangjei,” the incorrect attribution of Mukna Kangjei to Mizoram was noted.
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This mistake prompted strong objections from the people of Manipur, who hold Mukna Kangjei as an integral part of their cultural heritage.
Taking proactive measures, the association wrote to both the State Council of Educational Research and Training in New Delhi and NCERT New Delhi, urging them to acknowledge the mistake and make necessary corrections without delay.
Background of Mukna Kangjei:
Khong Kangjei, also known as foot hockey or Manipuri hockey, is a popular sport predominantly played in Manipur, India.
Resembling field hockey, it requires attributes like stamina, speed, and agility from players. Alongside sagol kanjei and Kang, it represents Manipur’s martial tradition, with mukna embodying significant cultural values.
Its origins can be traced back to the prehistoric Hayichak era, predating the time of Christ.
Legend has it that a young royal household boy named ‘Kangba’ played with a curved club and a spherical object, contributing to the game’s popularity. King Kangba’s advocacy for the game led to its widespread recognition, including the initiation of Kangjei games such as Kangjei and Sagol Kangjei.
The name “Khong Kangjei” derives from Meitei terms, where “khong” represents foot or wrestling, “kang” signifies a ball or round object, and “jei” is derived from “chei,” meaning to hit.
This rich history and cultural significance make Mukna Kangjei a cherished aspect of Manipuri heritage, deserving of accurate representation and recognition in educational materials.
