Imphal : The Northeast can be considered as the football hub of India and Manipur is not untouched by the charms of O Joga Bonita meaning the beautiful game. The much touted TKWA Trophy began with much fanfare in the sleepy wetland village of Tentha. The 9 a side annual tournament is organised by the Tentha Khongbal Welfare Association since 2009 and the tournament has grown to become a regular feature in the football calendar of Manipur.

The footballing spectacle is not played in any modern stadium but in a natural public ground in the village of Tentha. Only during the Covid pandemic the tournament was suspended. The football tournament is back in its former glory and the 2023 edition will feature a total of 40 teams from all over the state.

The ground is packed to the brim by the football enthusiasts during the tournament. The state of Manipur is known for its sports loving culture and football occupies a place in the heart of all Manipuris. Thousands of spectators throng the ground to partake in the visual feast of the footballing jamboree. The football players from the state regularly feature in the national team and the clubs of the country.