Khomlainai is a traditional indigenous martial sport of the Boro community, derived from a Bodo term meaning wrestling or grappling through strength, balance, and skill. It represents a sophisticated system of unarmed combat and self-defence, incorporating techniques such as pulling, pushing, lifting, kicking, punching, and strategic blocking using the hands, arms, and feet. The origins of Khomlainai are deeply rooted in the lived experiences of the Boro people, who historically inhabited dense forest landscapes and frequently encountered wild animals such as tigers and bears. As committed protectors of nature, they practiced unarmed combat not to harm or kill, but to survive and coexist with the natural world. Over generations, these survival skills evolved into a disciplined martial tradition and, eventually, an organised indigenous sport. Today, Khomlainai stands as a living cultural heritage, symbolising resilience, physical mastery, and harmony with nature within Boro society. Khomlainai also developed alongside the civilisation of the Boro Kingdom in ancient times, where trained wrestlers played a crucial role in defending territories against external threats. Historical accounts mention legendary warriors such as Ragadaw and Degadaw, renowned for their strength and skill in safeguarding the kingdom. The continuous interaction with both human adversaries and wildlife shaped a unique combat art, which later found expression as an indigenous sporting practice. Through Khomlainai, the Boro community has preserved a legacy of courage, discipline, and cultural identity across generations. ​ Historically, what it served Historically, Khomlainai served as a vital practice for survival in forest-based living, providing essential skills for military and territorial defence, while also transmitting strength, discipline, and resilience across generations. ​Practically, what it served Practically, it has helped develop physical fitness and self-defence skills, offered opportunities for sporting competition, reinforced cultural identity and community pride, and supported educational and institutional integration by promoting structured participation among youth. ​Community Participation & Transmission ​The transmission of Khomlainai has traditionally taken place through community-based practice, oral instruction, and direct demonstration by elders, practitioners, and experienced players. Knowledge is passed from one generation to the next through observation, participation, and mentorship rather than written instruction Local clubs, cultural organisations, and indigenous sports bodies now play an important role in safeguarding the tradition by organising training programs, competitions, and awareness activities. Community members, including elders, youth, and organisers, actively participate in preserving the rules, techniques, and cultural values associated with Khomlainai. This collective involvement ensures continuity, adaptability, and respect for traditional knowledge while enabling the practice to engage with contemporary sporting contexts.