How long is a Thang-Ta bout?
B · Beginner · The fight · 2 of 4A bout is two rounds of three minutes with a one-minute interval, ended by the timekeeper's bell. Players are called three minutes ahead. The referee gives commands in Manipuri: Chango to come in, Khuramnou to bow to each other, Phirep to take position, Houro to start and Leppo to stop. Players bow to the referee on reaching their line.
How it works
- Rounds: two of three minutes.
- Interval: one minute.
- Call-up: three minutes ahead.
- Chango: come in.
- Phirep: take position.
- Houro: start.
- Leppo: stop.
- Thok-o: out.
The glossary has the referee commands, the Houro and Leppo, the bout, the timekeeper, the central referee and the surrender.
Tricky cases
What does Cheirak mean?
Warning.
What does Chei Tare mean?
The stick has fallen.
Can a player give up?
Yes, through the referee.
Who stops the clock for a pause?
The timekeeper, when the referee says.
Why the rule exists
Set commands in the art's own language keep the bout tied to its Manipuri tradition.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Rounds | Two of three minutes | L T 6 |
| Call-up | Three minutes | L T 11 |
| Commands | Manipuri | L T 12 |
From the rule book
SGFI, Thang-Ta Game Rule, articles 6, 11, 12, 14 and 23. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: SGFI Thang-Ta Game Rule (scanned).