Polo, as we know it today, traces its origins in the Manipuri game of Sagol Kangjei. According to a Manipuri legend, the game has divine origins. The deity king of Manipur, Kangba, is credited with its invention in the 14th century BC. The first organized Sagol Kangjei match was held in 33 AD under the orders of another Manipuri king, Nongda Pakhangba. For centuries since then, the game remained an integral part of Manipuri culture. Little was known outside of Manipur until the British came to learn about it by chance.

The polo ground is the oldest polo ground in the world. Polo, though popularised by the British, originated in Manipur where players on horseback are required to score goals to win. It is a team sport. The game in Manipur was known as Kanjai-bazee, Sagol Kangjei or Pulu, the word which in an anglicised form is today known as Polo.
References of the Polo Ground in Imphal can be found in the royal chronicle Cheitharol Kumbaba written in about 33 AD. Many important personalities and players of the game have visited Imphal to play in the Polo Ground. The father of modern Polo, Lieutenant Sherer, had visited the grounds in the 1850s. Lord Curzon the viceroy of India had also visited the grounds in 1901.
Till today, every year the game is played in the Polo Ground. The Imphal Polo Riding Club, located in the vicinity of the ground, imparts regular coaching for the sport.
According to internet