Last year he was tested positive for COVID-19. Like many battles in his life, he had overcome the virus too.
TFM Desk
Legendary boxer Ngangom Dingko passed away on Thursday after a long battle with liver cancer. The enigmatic pugilist had won gold at the 1998 Asian Games held at Bangkok, for which he was awarded the Arjuna award. In 2013, he was awarded Padma Shri for his contribution to the sport.
Many, including eminent personalities took to social media platforms to pay tribute to the boxer who had inspired a generation of world class athelte not just in his native state of Manipur, but the whole country.
President Ram Nath Kovind wrote in Twitter: His life was brief but will remain inspiring to the youth, especially from Manipur, for long.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter to condole the death and shared the grief of the family and his admirers.
“One of the finest boxers India has ever produced, Dinko’s gold medal at 1998 Bangkok Asian Games sparked the Boxing chain reaction in India,” wrote union minister of state for youth affairs and sports, Kiren Rijiju on Twitter.
Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh also took to Twitter: “Dingko Singh was one of the most outstanding boxers Manipur has ever produced”.
Another legendary boxer from the state, Mary Kom also took to Twitter. “You leave but your legacy will live among us,” she said.
MPCC president Govindas Konthoujam also condoled the death of Dingko and shared the grief of his family members, friends and fans.
In a message, Govindas said, “He represented our state and nation in the world. His inspiration to young boxers and dedication to boxing will forever be remembered. May the Almighty give strength to the bereaved family members. I pray for his soul to be in eternal peace”.
The 42 year old pugilist was known for his flamboyant, on and off the court. His meteoric rise captured the imagination of the state and inspired many. For someone who grew up in an orphanage home and to win gold in Asiad in Boxing after a gap of 16 years, combined with his unapologetic personality made him a legend. A road along the Khuman Lampak Sports Complex was also named after him.
The legendary boxer who was with the Indian Navy had hung up his gloves and took to coaching. Last year he was tested positive for COVID-19. Like many battles in his life, he had overcome the virus too.