Sumo

Summary

Sumo is reputed Japanese heavy weight wrestling technique. It originated in the period of Tumulus (250-550). However, there have been a lot of changes made to it in the later stages, especially during the 17th century. It was initially performed as part of worship during festivals to entertain gods. However, from the 16th century onwards there was a drastic change in the way Sumo was appreciated. With the passage of time, the its status was raised from being a violent entertaining sport to the national sport of Japan.

History / Origins

ETYMOLOGY

The word Sumo derives from Japanese language. Sumo means "to compete". A wrestler is called a Rikishi or Sumotori.

BEGINNINGS

According to history the original traces of Sumo style wrestling were found 2000 years ago. During the period of Tumulus (250-552) it was only treated as a way of worshipping gods. From 8th century till the 11th century, Emperor Kanmu declared it a special yearly event to be performed in his court. Starting from the 11th century and until the 13th century, warriors often practiced Sumo together with other martial arts. Minamoto no Yoritomo, one of the shoguns which ruled during this era, was known to enjoy watching this spectacle. Historical records state than a huge a Sumo tournament, including more than 1500 wrestlers from whole Japan, was organized in 1578. During all these times, Sumo wrestling did not have any regulations or rules set. So, it was less of a competition and more of a violent sport.

During the 16th century, numerous regulations were introduced in order to ensure the safety of both wrestlers and present viewers. During this period, the strongest sumotori were highly respected. They were provided with generous stipends and special patronage. Eventually, a ranking system was introduced to inculcate a healthy competition among the wrestlers.

PRESENT DAY

Today Sumo wrestling has spread its wings across the world. The first ever professional Sumo tournament was conducted in 1761. This professional version of the Sumo wrestling is called "Grand Sumo". There are six official Sumo tournaments which are conducted by the Japanese Government every year, in order to pay respect to this traditional sport. At the national level, the Sumo style wrestling is regulated and organized by Japan Sumo Association (JSA). Sumo wrestling coaches/trainers are called stable-masters. In year 2008, there were 53 stables (Sumo training centers). People often come to Japan from different parts of the world in order to enjoy watching national level Grand Sumo tournaments in their traditional setting.

FOLKLORE

It is believed that god Kami is very fond of Sumo wrestling. This is the reason why during the festive season, which is called matsuri, Japanese people often organized Sumo fights in order to please and entertain this god.

The fighting area is called dohyou and comprises of a ring covered in sand. Sand is believed to be a purifier which purifies both the location and the wrestlers. The referees in Sumo are still considered the same as priests, so they always wear traditional robes during competitions. Before the wrestling starts, the wrestlers jump up high in the air and stamp their legs back on the floor making a noise. It is believed that this practice will scare off the demons.