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| General Information |
Bok chambab is a traditional wrestling form originating in Cambodia, also referred to as “Khmer wrestling”. The rules are similar to general freestyle wrestling, as on the Olympics, but the addition of dancing gives it its unique and typical atmosphere.Traditional wrestling is popular in Cambodia. It is not only a competitive sport, but also exercise as well as a cultural performance (Taing2017).Traditional wrestling competitions consist of three rounds. To win they have to get the opponent on his back on the ground at least twice.Wrestling competitions are accompanied by two drums, a male (skorngey) and a female drum (chhmol). Wrestlers interact with the drums by dancing to the beats in order to engage the public and rile up the opponent (Vanna 2002; Taing2017). |
| History/Development |
Bok chambab used to be a way to choose leaders to reign over the newly established Khmer territory. It was a match of strength and technique. The strongest wrestlers usually won. |
Transmission
(Policies/institutions) |
Representations of Khmer wrestling have been found in the Temple of Angkor Wat built in the 12th century (Green 2001, p. 541). It used to be passed on from the older generations to the younger generations in the village. Now it is practiced in some wrestling associations in Pursat, Kampong Chhnang, Kandal, Prey Veng, Takeo, and Battambang provinces. Woman can also take part, and have done so throughout history (Vanna, 2002). |
| Relevant Organisations |
- Cambodia Amateur Wrestling Federation- Wrestling Federation of Cambodia |
| Additional Materials |
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| References |
- Taing, R. (2017). “The Kingdom’s oldest wrestling form grapples with fading interest”The Phnom Penh Posthttps://www.phnompenhpost.com/arts-culture/kingdoms-oldest-wrestling-form-grapples-fading-interest- Vanna, L.(2002). “Khmer Traditional Wrestling Revived”Leisure Cambodiahttp://www.leisurecambodia.com/news/detail.php?id=113- Green, T. A.(2001). Martial arts of the world: an encyclopedia, Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO. | | |
