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Which traditional Manipur sport is considered the origin of modern polo?
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Manipur
The largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, Loktak Lake is known for its numerous phumdis, or floating islands with vegetation.
The traditional Manipuri sport considered the direct indigenous precursor to modern polo is known as sagol kangjei.12
Played on small ponies with seven players on each side, this equestrian game is widely recognized as the origin of the modern sport. While the exact historical roots of polo are debated among historiansâwith some pointing to ancient Central Asian or Persian influencesâsagol kangjei remains the most significant traditional form associated with the development of the modern game.2