Yubi Lakpi, also known as Yubee–Lakpee, is a popular outdoor game native to
Manipur. Played exclusively by men, it has some similarity with Rugby. The word 'yubee' means coconut and 'lakpee' means snatching. Yubi Lakpi is played by dividing the players into two groups. Generally each team contains seven players. The game starts as the coconut, properly smeared, is thrown from one end of the field and each player tries to catch it.
The ultimate aim of the each team is to achieve a goal. The referee throws the coconut into play, in centre field. On getting the signal from referee, players move towards it. The player who catches the coconut holds it to his chest. Players are not allowed to kick it.
To attain a goal, the player foresees the box area from the front and must cross the goal line, while carrying the coconut. The play ground is an open space (around 45 x 18 m in area), which is marked by lines. A rectangular box (4.5 x 3 m) is placed at the one end of the field.
To play this game, a player should possess speed, great reflexes and a sharp mind. Yubi Lakpi is played on the grounds of the Bijoy Govinda Temple or the beautiful green turf of the palace ground.
