The Chhattisgarh Olympics have started statewide. During this festive season, everyone from the youth to the senior citizens is participating in these sports with zeal. Both the greenery in the environment and nature’s bounty in the form of crops are increasing enthusiasm manifold. People’s emotional connection with these games can be clearly seen as such an event is organized for the first time in Chhattisgarh. Players participating in the games are being reminded of their childhood and youth.
Traditional games are rooted in our culture. Not only are these games a means of wholesome entertainment, but they also keep the body healthy by providing it with energy and freshness. Games like Pittul, Gili Danda, Kho kho, and Kabaddi are played here in most villages. The agility and energy of players of Kho kho and Kabaddi are exemplary. On the other hand, the game of Fugdi is popular among women and girls.
Traditional games played in the state's cities and villages are included in the Chhattisgarh Olympics. The format of this sports competition has been prepared at the Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel's initiative to provide a new identity to the traditional games of the state. These games are being organized with the approval of the Cabinet. In this event, 14 traditional games of public interest have been included.
For the entire three months, starting from 6 October to 6 January 2023, every village and city in Chhattisgarh will be immersed in sports. With the competition involving traditional sports, the new culture of sports in Chhattisgarh will also be encouraged. While on one hand, the event will increase awareness about sports, it will also encourage new talent by providing it a suitable platform. Chhattisgarh will emerge as a new power in the nation through this event of public interest and significance.
The slogan of Khelbo-Jeetbo-Gadhbo Nava Chhattisgarh has also been raised to promote sports in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh is approaching a new sports revolution. Efforts have been made to ensure that Chhattisgarh is known as a hub of sports in the coming future. Akarshi Kashyap, who won a Gold medal at the 36th National Games held in Gujarat, has given new recognition to the badminton players of the state. Amitesh Mishra won the first gold medal in skating in the 36th National Games held in Gujarat. Players from Chhattisgarh have won 7 medals so far including 2 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
In the Chhattisgarh Olympics being organized in six phases, the spirit of sportsmanship is more evident than the matter of winning or losing. There have even been instances where two brothers or two Mitaans are playing against each other and congratulating and embracing each other after the completion of the game.
Sports facilities are continuously improving in the Chhattisgarh state. New academies are being opened and work on new infrastructure has also started. Academies for shooting, hockey, and badminton have been opened already. In these academies, not only top-notch sports facilities are available, but competitions at the international level are also being held here. Recently tournaments of chess and badminton were organized, where not only national but also international players participated. Additionally, the Road Safety World Series match in Cricket was also organized in the state.
