Have you ever heard of Yupi Lakpi? Let us introduce you to this unique and exciting game from Manipur, India. Yubi Lakpi is a coconut snatching game, an Indian version of rugby. It is an age-old local game of Manipur. The native Meitei community plays it.
The literal translation of Yupi Lakpi in the Meitei language is ‘coconut snatching’. To this day, the exact origin of the game is unknown. However, according to popular belief, Yubi Lakpi is an evolution of the historic ceremonial enactment of nectar snatching in the Samudra Manthan, a renowned mythological event.Let’s see how to play yubi lakpi.
What is Yubi Lakpi?
Yupi Lakpi, which means “coconut snatching” in the Meitei language, is a local game with deep roots in Manipur’s culture. It has been played for generations, though the exact origin of the game is still debated.
Many people believe that Yupi Lakpi evolved from the ancient ritual of Samudra Manthan, where gods and demons fought to obtain the nectar of immortality. Like in that myth, in Yupi Lakpi, two teams—Team God and Team Evil—compete against each other to snatch the coconut, which represents the nectar.
When and Where is Yubi Lakpi Played?
An official game of Yupi Lakpi is played annually during the Yaoshang festival, the spring festival of Holi, at the palace grounds of the Shree Shree Bijoy Govindaji temple, in the presence of erstwhile royals. The event is a significant part of the festival, bringing people together to witness this traditional sport.
The Field and Equipment of Yupi Lakpi
Yupi Lakpi is played on a 45-meter-long, 18-meter-wide rectangular field, which is smaller than a rugby field and lacks grass. On one end of the field, a rectangular box measuring 4.5 meters by 3 meters is located. Players must take the coconut to the box to score a goal.
The players play barefoot and wear only shorts, making the game even more challenging. Before the match, both the players and the coconut are covered in oil.
This makes the players and coconut slippery which makes them harder to catch, adding to the excitement of the game. The referee tosses the coconut ,soaked in oil to start the game.
How to play Yubi Lakpi
To play Yupi Lakpi, you need seven players on each side. The referee throws the oiled coconut into the air to start the game, and all the players rush to grab it.
The goal is to carry the coconut to the box at the end of the field and present it to the judges seated behind the line. The player who scores the most goals by carrying the coconut through the box and out of the field wins.
Now, here’s the twist. The players are divided into two teams, but this is not a team game. Each player competes individually to score goals.
While they may be part of a team, the ultimate winner is the player who scores the most goals. The other players try to tackle the player carrying the coconut and snatch it away, making the game intense and full of action.
The Rules of Yupi Lakpi
Yupi Lakpi may seem similar to rugby, but it has unique rules. Here are some of the key rules of the game:
- Carrying the Coconut: Players must carry the coconut under their arms, not against their chest. This rule makes it harder to hold onto the oiled coconut while running towards the goal.
- Tackling and Fouling: Players cannot kick or punch their opponents. They can only tackle the player who has the coconut. This helps the game remain fair and focused on the objective.
- Scoring a Goal: To score a goal, the player must carry the coconut to the goal box at the end of the field and present it to the judges. The player who scores the most goals wins the game.
- The Teams: While there are two teams, Team God and Team Evil, each player competes individually. The team that performs better overall is considered to have an impact on the land’s prosperity for the year.
The Importance of Yubi Lakpi
Yubi Lakpi is way more than a game, as it has a deeper significance for the citizens of Manipur. The outcome is believed to affect the land’s prosperity for the rest of the year.
If Team God wins, they believe, the land will be blessed with good fortune, an abundance of food, peace, and happiness. However, if Team Evil wins, it is considered a bad omen, bringing bad luck to the land.
The winner of the game is rewarded with token money. Along with the coconut, the team celebrates by carrying the winning player to the temple for a holy dip in the temple waters.
This ritual adds a spiritual touch to the game, connecting it to the cultural and religious traditions in Manipur.
The Connection to Samudra Manthan
The tales behind Yupi Lakpi are closely associated with the ancient story of Samudra Manthan, a Hindu myth in which the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality.
In the myth, the gods and demons fought fiercely to obtain the nectar, and this struggle is symbolically reenacted in Yubi Lakpi.
Team God represents the Devas in the Yubi lakpi, while Team Evil represents the Asuras. The coconut here symbolises the pot of nectar, and the players battle to snatch it, just as the gods and demons did in the myth.
This connection to Samudra Manthan gives Yupi Lakpi a sacred historical significance enhancing its importance.
The Spirit of Yupi Lakpi
Yupi Lakpi is a game of strength, agility, and quick decision-making. The players must be fit and alert to grab the coconut, avoid tackles, and score goals.
The game is fast and exciting, with players constantly moving, dodging, and wrestling to get the coconut.
The spirit of Yupi Lakpi lies in its blend of physical skill and cultural tradition.
This game brings the community together, celebrates the rich history of Manipur, and keeps alive an age-old tradition deeply rooted in the beliefs and values of the Meitei people.
Yupi Lakpi Today
Today, Yupi Lakpi continues to be an important part of Manipur’s cultural heritage.
It is played during the Yaoshang festival and symbolises the rich history and traditions of the state of Manipur. The game also showcases the strength, skill, and spirit of the people of Manipur.
Although Yupi Lakpi may not be as popular as rugby or American football, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Meitei community.
It reminds the state of its vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and enduring legacy of its people.
Conclusion
Yupi Lakpi is a celebration of the culture, history, and traditions of not only Manipur but also India. With its unique rules, spiritual significance, and connection to the ancient myth of Samudra Manthan, Yupi Lakpi stands out as a sport that is both exciting and meaningful.
Whether you are a sports enthusiast or someone interested in cultural traditions, Yupi Lakpi offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of Manipur.
