Category sports

Jaipur, Jan 15:  Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur, successfully organised its 13th Annual National Inter-College Sports Meet on January 9 and 10, 2026, hosting two days of high-energy competition, discipline and sporting excellence on campus. The prestigious event was graced by Mr. Nikhil Doru, former India A cricketer, accomplished Ranji Trophy player, and current Ranji Trophy coach, as the Chief Guest.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Daneshwar Sharma, Director (In-charge), congratulated the organising team for the successful conduct of the 13th edition of the National Sports Meet. Dr. Lokesh Vijayvargy, Dean – Student Affairs, shared that over 850 students from more than 25 colleges across India participated in the two-day sporting extravaganza, making it one of the most vibrant editions to date.

The sports meet commenced with an impressive march past led by the Sports Committee and the Desert Devils Club, symbolising unity, discipline and competitive spirit. This was followed by a soulful Saraswati Vandana, setting an auspicious and inspiring tone for the event.

The inauguration ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Anbesh Jamwal and Mr. Devesh Vashishta, Faculty Chairs of the Sports Committee and Desert Devils Club, along with Dr. V. K. Tomar, Chief Administrative Officer. Students from Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, also motivated the participants and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the organising team. Dr. Arun Singh Rana delivered the vote of thanks.

The valedictory ceremony witnessed the felicitation of winners across multiple sporting disciplines. First prize winners included UEM (Basketball – Boys), Poornima University (Basketball – Girls, Gully Cricket – Boys, Pickleball – Boys), SKIT (Carrom), University of Maharaja College (Chess), Vivekananda Global University (Cyber Games – BGMI; Table Tennis – Boys Singles and Boys Doubles), MNIT (Football – Boys), Global Institute of Technology (Kho-Kho – Boys), Kanoria College (Kho-Kho – Girls), Dr. B. Lal Institute of Biotechnology (Pool Table), Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur (Table Tennis – Girls Singles; Tug of War – Boys), Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida (Tug of War – Girls), and Pareek College (Volleyball – Boys).

The successful conclusion of the 13th National Inter-College Sports Meet reaffirmed Jaipuria Institute of Management’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship, holistic development and a culture of excellence among students.

Bangalore, Jan 13: Students from Greenwood High International School students delivered an outstanding performance at the 17th State Level Bangalore School Olympics – Athletics Championship 2026, with several athletes securing podium finishes at the state-level competition held at the Kitturu Rani Chennamma Stadium, Bengaluru. The students competed against participants from nearly 40 schools across Bengaluru.

The championship, organised by the Youngsters Sports Promoters Trust, featured participation from nearly 40 schools across Bengaluru. Greenwood High students competed across Under-8 to Under-16 age categories in track and field events including javelin throw, hurdles, shot put, and relay races. Greenwood High athletes competed across multiple events over the two-day programme.

Among the medal winners, Aariya Maan (Grade 6) won the Gold Medal in the Under-14 Javelin Throw, demonstrating exceptional technique and competitive spirit. Greenwood High also earned multiple silver medals, including Ansh Sandeep (Grade 4) in the 60m Hurdles, and the Under-12 (4×100m) Relay Team comprising Rohini Sindhu Prasad (Grade 5), Hanvitha Koneru (Grade 6), Ilaria Anna Melvin (Grade 6), and Aayushi Karnath (Grade 6), who delivered a strong team performance on the track. Several other Greenwood High students also won medals across different age categories and events.

Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Niru Agarwal, Managing Trustee, Greenwood High International School said

“We are immensely proud of our students for their achievements at the Bangalore School Olympics. Their success reflects their dedication and discipline, as well as the consistent guidance provided by our coaches and faculty. Greenwood High continues to prioritise sports as a key pillar of student development.”

The performance at the Bangalore School Olympics – Athletics Championship 2026 stands as a testament to Greenwood High International School’s continued focus on excellence across academics, sports, and co-curricular education, preparing students to compete confidently at state and national platforms.

Goa, Jan 13: The World Legends Pro T20 League (WLPTL) has announced Goa Tourism as the Presenting Sponsor for its highly anticipated inaugural season, scheduled to begin on January 26 at the 1919 Cricket Stadium, Verna, Goa.

The debut edition of WLPTL promises an international sporting spectacle, featuring 90 cricketers across six teams, with a stellar lineup of global and Indian cricketing legends. International stars such as Shane Watson, Dale Steyn, Jacques Kallis, Chris Gayle, and Faf du Plessis, along with Indian greats including Shikhar Dhawan, Dinesh Karthik, Harbhajan Singh, among others, have been confirmed for the opening season. The tournament will offer fans in Goa a rare opportunity to witness some of the greatest T20 players in history live in action.

For more than four decades, Goa Tourism has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s tourism landscape and positioning Goa as one of India’s most preferred travel destinations. The arrival of the World Legends Pro T20 League adds a new dimension to Goa’s appeal, combining elite international cricket with the state’s renowned beaches, heritage, cuisine, and vibrant festivals. The league is set to attract both domestic and international visitors, firmly placing Goa on the global cricket calendar.

Commenting on the association, Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing and Stationery, said:

“Goa is a natural destination for global sporting events, and hosting the World Legends Pro T20 League aligns seamlessly with our vision for tourism and events. By bringing together cricketing legends and fans from around the world, the league will act as a catalyst for tourism, engage local communities and youth, and create meaningful opportunities for local businesses and the hospitality ecosystem, while positioning Goa as a hub for world-class sports entertainment.”

Speaking on the partnership, Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO, SGSE, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Goa Tourism as the Presenting Sponsor for the inaugural season of the World Legends Pro T20 League. Goa offers the perfect blend of vibrant culture and world-class hospitality, making it an ideal destination for a premium international property like WLPTL. This partnership strengthens our vision of delivering a festival-style, high-quality experience for local fans and travelling supporters, while reinforcing Goa’s position as a premier destination for international sporting events.”

Designed as a single-destination, festival-style tournament, the World Legends Pro T20 League aims to deliver a distinctive cricketing experience for fans across the globe. As the countdown to January 26 begins, spectators can look forward to legendary names returning to the field and a celebration of cricket set against the backdrop of one of India’s most iconic destinations.

NEW DELHI – Hansraj College delivered a clinical performance today to lift the Mahatma Hansraj Memorial T20 Cricket Tournament trophy, defeating Miranda House by a massive 127 runs in a one-sided final.

​Tarun’s Century Powers Hansraj to 225

​Electing to bat first, Hansraj College set the stage on fire by posting a daunting total of 225 runs. The highlight of the innings was a sensational century by Tarun, who dismantled the opposition bowling attack. He smashed 130 runs off just 57 deliveries, a knock decorated with 19 boundaries and 6 towering sixes.

​Supporting the onslaught, Mohit Tyagi contributed a solid 41 runs, while Captain Satish Pathak added a crucial 20 runs to ensure the team reached a formidable score.
​

Miranda House Collapses Under Pressure

​Faced with a mountain to climb, the Miranda House batting lineup crumbled early. They failed to find any momentum and were eventually bowled out for 98 runs in 19 overs. Captain Sonu Giri was the top scorer for the side, though he managed only 13 runs as wickets fell at regular intervals.

​Award Ceremony

​The match concluded with a grand presentation ceremony. The Chief Guest, Professor Vijay Lakshmi, Principal of Miranda House, lauded the spirit of the game and presented the championship trophy to the winning captain, Satish Pathak.

Jan 05th: The DP World ILT20 Season 4, exclusively on ‘Z’, continues to captivate cricket fans with high-quality competition and compelling storylines. After delivering thrilling encounters day after day through the league stage, the tournament has now reached the knockout phase, where the top four teams will go head-to-head in a high-stakes battle to secure their place in the final. With the summit clash just around the corner, anticipation is building for what promises to be an edge-of-the-seat contest between two deserving finalists. DP World ILT20 Commentator and legendary Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh spoke about the league’s steady growth, its rising competitiveness, and the strong connect it has built with audiences since its inaugural season.

Associated with the DP World ILT20 since Season 1, Harbhajan said, “This is the fourth year of the tournament and every season has brought something new. The expectations have grown year on year, and the quality of cricket has improved consistently. From where the league started to where it is today, the journey has been very satisfying. It shows how the DP World ILT20 has established itself as a strong and competitive league in a short span of time.”

Speaking about the presence of Indian players in the league, Harbhajan added, “It’s lovely to see Indian players like Dinesh Karthik and Piyush Chawla playing this season. In earlier editions, we also saw players like Yusuf Pathan and Robin Uthappa. Indian players who have recently retired are coming here to continue playing competitive cricket, and their experience adds great value to the league.”

Adding to the same, Laxmi Shetty, Head – Advertisement Revenue, Broadcast and Digital, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, said, “The inclusion of Indian players has brought a wonderful dimension to this season of DP World ILT20. At ‘Z’, we’ve seen a strong positive reflection in viewership and audience engagement, as these familiar faces resonate deeply with Indian cricket fans. Their experience and competitive edge have not only raised the bar for the tournament but also strengthened the emotional bond viewers share with the league. With the finals just around the corner, the anticipation is at an all-time high, and we are excited to broadcast this thrilling showdown to millions of enthusiasts across our network.”

Reflecting on the league as a whole, the former Indian spinner noted, “The DP World ILT20 has become a great platform not just for international stars, but also for players to test themselves in a high-pressure environment. Playing in Dubai and across the UAE is always special, and being part of this league for the fourth year continues to be a pleasure.”

Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts across India can catch the LIVE action exclusively on &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai – SD, Zee Cinemalu and OTT platform Zee 5.

Jan 05th: The DP World ILT20 Season 4, exclusively on ‘Z’, continues to captivate cricket fans with high-quality competition and compelling storylines. After delivering thrilling encounters day after day through the league stage, the tournament has now reached the knockout phase, where the top four teams will go head-to-head in a high-stakes battle to secure their place in the final. With the summit clash just around the corner, anticipation is building for what promises to be an edge-of-the-seat contest between two deserving finalists. DP World ILT20 Commentator and legendary Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh spoke about the league’s steady growth, its rising competitiveness, and the strong connect it has built with audiences since its inaugural season.

Associated with the DP World ILT20 since Season 1, Harbhajan said, “This is the fourth year of the tournament and every season has brought something new. The expectations have grown year on year, and the quality of cricket has improved consistently. From where the league started to where it is today, the journey has been very satisfying. It shows how the DP World ILT20 has established itself as a strong and competitive league in a short span of time.”

Speaking about the presence of Indian players in the league, Harbhajan added, “It’s lovely to see Indian players like Dinesh Karthik and Piyush Chawla playing this season. In earlier editions, we also saw players like Yusuf Pathan and Robin Uthappa. Indian players who have recently retired are coming here to continue playing competitive cricket, and their experience adds great value to the league.”

Adding to the same, Laxmi Shetty, Head – Advertisement Revenue, Broadcast and Digital, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, said, “The inclusion of Indian players has brought a wonderful dimension to this season of DP World ILT20. At ‘Z’, we’ve seen a strong positive reflection in viewership and audience engagement, as these familiar faces resonate deeply with Indian cricket fans. Their experience and competitive edge have not only raised the bar for the tournament but also strengthened the emotional bond viewers share with the league. With the finals just around the corner, the anticipation is at an all-time high, and we are excited to broadcast this thrilling showdown to millions of enthusiasts across our network.”

Reflecting on the league as a whole, the former Indian spinner noted, “The DP World ILT20 has become a great platform not just for international stars, but also for players to test themselves in a high-pressure environment. Playing in Dubai and across the UAE is always special, and being part of this league for the fourth year continues to be a pleasure.”

Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts across India can catch the LIVE action exclusively on &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai – SD, Zee Cinemalu and OTT platform Zee 5.

Macro Media, Granules India, Oriana, Sudhakar PVC and Truzon Solar Register Victories

Hyderabad, Dec 23: The FTCCI–NMDC President’s Cup 2025, an exclusive cricket league for industrial workers, is currently underway with exciting matches played over the weekend.

In one of the matches held on Saturday, Macro Media Digital Imaging Private Limited faced Sudhakar PVC Products Pvt Ltd. Although Sudhakar PVC scored 204/4 in 20 overs and Macro Media Fusion were bowled out for 136 in 15.4 overs, Macro Media were declared winners as per the tournament rules.

In other Saturday matches, Granules India Ltd registered a convincing eight-wicket victory over MPL Group, scoring 114/2 in 7.1 overs in reply to MPL’s 110 all out in 20 overs.

Oriana LnCo Advisors LLP also secured a comfortable six-wicket win against Truzon Solar, scoring 83/4 in 17 overs, while Truzon Solar were bowled out for 82 in 14.4 overs.

On Sunday, three more matches were played with Sudhakar PVC, Oriana LnCo Advisors, and Truzon Solar emerging victorious.

Sudhakar PVC posted an imposing 228/4 in 20 overs, restricting MPL Group to 118 all out in 16.2 overs.

Oriana LnCo Advisors scored 134/9 in 24 overs, while ProArch managed 98/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

In the third match of the day, Truzon Solar defeated NMDC by six wickets. NMDC scored 148/8 in 20 overs, and Truzon Solar successfully chased the target, scoring 149/4 in 18.2 overs.

The league features eight teams competing in a five-day Round Robin format, with matches scheduled only on weekends across three weekends. The semi-finals and finals will be held on December 28.

The tournament is organised by the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), a 108-year-old organisation and one of India’s most vibrant regional chambers. The President’s Cup, now in its second edition, was launched last year as the first-ever cricket league exclusively for the industrial workforce.

Highlighting the significance of the tournament, Ravi Kumar, President, FTCCI, said that an Industrial Cricket League plays a vital role in strengthening camaraderie among companies and creating a collaborative platform beyond boardrooms.

“It promotes employee wellness, leadership, team spirit, and work–life balance—essential in today’s high-pressure corporate environment. Such initiatives help reduce stress, improve productivity, and foster a strong sense of belonging. Sports have the power to unite, showcasing the human side of industries where teamwork and fair play rise above competition,” he said.

Mr Ravi Kumar added that the response to the league has been overwhelming. “Due to time constraints, participation was limited to eight teams this year. In the coming years, we plan to expand the tournament to 12 teams.”

The participating teams in the FTCCI–NMDC President’s Cup 2025 include NMDC Limited and MPL Group. Other teams taking part are Macro Media Digital Imaging Private Limited and Sudhakar PVC Products Pvt Ltd.

Also competing in the tournament are Oriana Solar Energy Private Ltd (by Lano Advisors LLP) and ProArch – IT Consulting Services. The remaining teams in the league are Truzon Solar (by Suntek) and Granules India Ltd.

Hyderabad, Dec 21: Telangana has etched its name in Indian sports history with the launch of the Telangana Pro Basketball League (TPBL)—the first professional basketball league of its kind in the state and only the second official state-level pro basketball league in India.

Season 1 of TPBL is currently underway at the iconic K.V.B.R. Indoor Stadium, Yousufguda, till 24th December, transforming Hyderabad into the epicentre of elite basketball action. Featuring high-octane matches, fierce rivalries, and championship ambitions, the league promises a thrilling spectacle for fans and players alike.

This is an exclusive league for players from Telangana, showcasing homegrown talent from across the state. The league features over 72 players and engages nearly 200 supporting professionals, including coaches, technical officials, medical staff, and event personnel. Players have been selected from diverse districts of Telangana, reflecting the depth and reach of basketball talent in the region.

Each team comprises 12 players, acquired through a competitive player auction. Mr Akash of the Hyderabad Hawks emerged as the highest-valued player, secured for a record bid of ₹2.5 lakh. The players represent a wide age spectrum, ranging from 15 years to 36 years, and include students as well as working professionals, highlighting the league’s inclusive and developmental nature.

The league is scheduled to be conducted twice every year and is projected to generate over ₹100 crore in business activity, both directly and indirectly. The winning team will receive a prize money of ₹20 lakh, along with an MVP award featuring an R15 motorcycle.

Matches are hosted daily between 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, ensuring prime-time visibility for fans and broadcasters. Standing tall among all participants is Srinivas Reddy of the Medchal Mavericks, the tallest player in the league, with an impressive height of 7 feet.

The opening matches have already delivered electrifying performances and a vibrant atmosphere, as fans cheered loud and proud. The joy of witnessing top-tier basketball live, surrounded by friends and fellow supporters, has made TPBL Season 1 a truly memorable sporting experience.

Every match of the league is being broadcast LIVE, bringing Telangana’s basketball revolution to audiences. More than 20,000 people are watching it live.

Ahead of its inaugural season, TPBL completed its franchise auction in November. All six franchises were sold for a combined value of ₹1.27 crore, underlining strong investor confidence and growing interest in professional basketball in the state.

The Franchise Ownership details for 4-Year Rights is as follows. Hyderabad Hawks is owned by Deepti Akki of N Sports Pvt Ltd and bagged it for ₹27.5 lakh

Ranga Reddy Risers is owned by Srujana of Destiny World got it for ₹26 lakh. Karimnagar Kings – Avinash & Raghuveer / Fitbee for ₹20 lakh; Warangal Warriors —Dr. Chandrashekar / Sowbhagya Bharti – for ₹18.5 lakh; Nizamabad Nawabs – Laxmi Motors for ₹18 lakh, and Khammam Titans – Charan / SCL Infratech for ₹16.5 lakh. Each franchise carries an annual fee equal to the bid amount, with a 5% yearly escalation.

The league is the brainchild of A. Prudhvishwar Reddy, General Secretary of the Telangana Basketball Association and a former Indian national player. Inspired by international professional leagues, TPBL is designed to create a structured pathway for young talent while strengthening grassroots basketball across Telangana.

Player development took centre stage with state-wide tryouts held at Dream Basketball Academy, followed by the Player Auction in the same month, allowing franchises to build competitive squads featuring the best local talent.

The unique feature of the ownership is women taking centre stage and owning and managing the teams. A salute to their leadership and Women in Sports. Special is Deepti Akki of Hyderabad Hawks and Srujana of Ranga Reddy Risers; Sowbhagya Bharti of Warangal Warriors and their entire TPBL organising teams for their inspiring leadership, passion, and commitment. Their efforts stand as a powerful example of women driving change in sports, setting new benchmarks for inclusivity and professionalism in Indian basketball.

TPBL is considered a new chapter in particular to Telangana and in general in Indian Basketball. With soaring crowds, professional execution, and a clear long-term vision, the Telangana Pro Basketball League is redefining the future of the sport in the state. As Season 1 unfolds, TPBL is not just hosting matches—it is building a legacy. Indian Basketball has found a bold new home in Telangana.

According to Srujana, a similar league for Women and Children is around the corner.

Basketball in Telangana is not yet a mass sport like cricket, but it is one of the fastest-growing organised sports in the state, with strong institutional backing, rising youth participation, and—most importantly—the launch of a professional league, said R Sridhar Reddy, President of Telangana Basketball Association

Mr. A. Prudhvishwar Reddy, General Secretary, Telangana Basketball Association, further adds that Basketball in Telangana has seen steady and meaningful growth over the years. Today, we have more than 10,000 active players participating across schools, colleges, academies, universities, and district associations. The sport enjoys a strong footprint in regions such as Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Warangal, Karimnagar, Khammam, and Nizamabad, with players regularly competing in platforms like the School Games Federation of India, Khelo India, inter-university tournaments, and district championships. Basketball has particularly found resonance in urban schools, private institutions, and universities, where access to indoor facilities has helped nurture talent.

Adding further, he stated that at the grassroots and institutional level, Telangana is well-positioned. The state has over 30 structured basketball academies and training centres, supported by robust school programs in CBSE, ICSE, and international schools. The Telangana Basketball Association continues to play an active role in organising competitions, identifying talent, and creating pathways for young players. Hyderabad remains the hub of basketball activity in the state, thanks to better infrastructure, experienced coaches, and consistent exposure to competitive play.

In terms of infrastructure, Mr A. Prudhvishwar Reddy adds, facilities such as the K.V.B.R. Indoor Stadium, the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, and several university and institutional indoor courts form the backbone of basketball development in Telangana. While we acknowledge that infrastructure is still limited compared to the growing demand, the progress is encouraging. With sustained investment, structured leagues, and community support, basketball in Telangana is moving in the right direction and holds immense potential for the future.

The launch of the Telangana Pro Basketball League (TPBL) has significantly elevated the sport’s stature. The first professional basketball league in Telangana and the second official state pro basketball league in India secured a ₹1.27 crore franchise valuation in Season 1 itself, marking a very good beginning.

The highest scorer of the League to date has been Tejendra and Raju Bhai of Ranga Reddy Risers (RRR) team

Live broadcasts, packed indoor crowds, and professional execution are helping to increase the fan base, stated Srujana. And it will ultimately contribute to cultivating a sports culture among future generations. She says it’s an Incredible feeling to own a team, it’s pride, responsibility and constant buzz. In the long run, we are instrumental in cultivating sports culture for the current and future generations.

Mr A. Prudhvishwar Reddy states that his goal is to take the league and local players national and international level. He, being a national player himself, thus this is his best way to give back to the sport.

Architects from different parts of the country came together on Sunday at the Hindon Sports Complex Golf Course as the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), UP Chapter concluded the third season of the Indian Institute of Architects Premier League (IIAPL) Golf Tournament.

The single-day national event drew architects from almost every state, turning Ghaziabad into a meeting ground for members of the architectural community. The tournament concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, while a IIA National Office Bearers’ Meeting held alongside the event added to the importance of the occasion.

The competition was played in the Stableford format, with participants competing across several categories. In the Men’s category, Ar. Amit Kumar won the tournament, followed by Ar. Binesh Sukumar as runner-up. In the Women’s category, Ar. Shweta K secured first place, with Ar. Ridhima Bajaj finished second and Ar. Shilpa Jain placed third.

Individual skill based awards celebrating the passion for the game were also presented during the ceremony. Ar. Sameer Divekar won the Closest to the Pin award, Ar. Rajeev Gandhi was recognised for Straight Drive, Ar. Rahul Tyagi received the Longest Drive award and Ar. Jaiprakash was chosen for the Monster drive . An additional entertainment round for budding golfers was organised as part of the event, where Ar. Priyank Srivastava emerged as winner and Ar. Avitesh finished as runner-up.

The IIA Premier League Golf Tournament was conceived as an informal platform that allows architects to connect outside the regular meetings and conferences. Over the years, it has grown into an annual event that encourages interaction across regions and professional backgrounds.

Speaking on the occasion, Ar. Sandeep Kumar Saraswat, Chairman, IIA UP Chapter, said that hosting a national IIA event in Ghaziabad reflected the growing role of Uttar Pradesh and the NCR region in India’s development journey. He added that such gatherings help build stronger professional bonds within the fraternity.

Ar. Yogesh Tyagi, Convener of the Tournament and Chairman, IIA Ghaziabad Centre, said the participation from across states highlighted the continued interest in the event. He noted that the Hindon Sports Complex Golf Course provided a suitable setting for bringing together sport and professional interaction in a single day.

Senior members and national office bearers of the institute were present at the event, where discussions focused on key organisational matters and future plans of the Indian Institute of Architects.

The 11 member EC team of IIA  Ghaziabad Centre Ar. Pooja , Ar Priyanka, Ar. Shilpa J, Ar. Subeer , Ar Sanjay Pande , Ar. Seemant, Ar Sachin, Ar Shilpa A, Ar. Arun, along with Ar. Rahul tyagi and Ar Gaurav Saini were instrumental in organizing a successful tournament once again highlighting Chapter’s efforts to create meaningful engagement opportunities beyond routine professional activities, while also placing Ghaziabad on the map as a venue for national-level architectural events.

Kolkata, Dec 10: FTS Yuva, the youth wing of Friends of Tribals Society (FTS), is excited to announce the 7th edition of its flagship event, the Ekal Run, which will take place at Godrej Waterside, Kolkata, on 4th January 2026. This year, the event will be inaugurated by India’s trailblazing badminton icon, Saina Nehwal. A sporting legend with over 24 international titles, Saina created history at the 2012 London Olympics by becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in badminton.

The Ekal Run, which draws thousands of fitness enthusiasts every year, continues its commitment to promoting health, community engagement, and a noble social mission – educating rural and tribal children across India through the Ekal Vidyalaya initiative. The 7th edition is expected to witness massive participation across multiple race formats, including 21km, 10km, 5km, and a non-timed 3km fun run, encouraging people of all age groups and fitness levels to be part of the movement.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Rishabh Saraogi, President of FTS Yuva, Kolkata Chapter, said, “We are immensely honored to welcome Saina Nehwal as the inaugurator of the 7th edition of the Ekal Run. Her groundbreaking achievements and extraordinary journey reflect the spirit of resilience, excellence, and empowerment that Ekal Run stands for. This event not only promotes fitness but also supports the noble cause of educating rural children across India. We look forward to another impactful edition that brings communities together for a greater mission.”

On this occasion, Mr. Gaurav Bagla, National Coordinator of Ekal Run, said, “Ekal Run is more than just a marathon – it is a collective stride towards shaping a brighter future for rural India. Having Saina Nehwal inaugurate this edition adds immense motivation for our participants and reinforces our mission of empowering communities through education.”

The Ekal Run is not just a sporting event but a movement to raise funds for the education of rural children through the Ekal Vidyalaya. Over the past editions, the event has garnered immense support and enthusiasm, uniting people from all walks of life to promote education and empowerment for children in rural and tribal areas.