Guwahati, 29 August (HS): National Sports Day 2026 was celebrated at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, Sarusajai, on Saturday with a series of sporting competitions, demonstrations and programmes aimed at promoting sports, fitness and Assam’s rich indigenous sporting traditions.

Assam Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Biswajit Daimary attended the programme along with other dignitaries. The celebration began with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp and floral tributes to Major Dhyan Chand, whose birth anniversary is observed as National Sports Day.

Addressing the gathering, Daimary said the occasion reaffirmed the commitment to building a strong sporting culture in Assam and encouraging children and young people to take up sports. He highlighted the success of Khel Maharan Assam as a grassroots platform for identifying and nurturing sporting talent across the state, adding that such initiatives would continue to receive emphasis.

Recalling Major Dhyan Chand’s contribution to Indian sports, the Minister said his life and achievements continue to inspire generations of sportspersons. He stressed that discipline, dedication and perseverance are essential for achieving excellence in sports.

The celebrations featured competitions in tug of war, duck catching, cock fight, Indian archery, Tekeli Bhonga, slow cycling and other sporting activities.

Demonstrations of traditional and indigenous activities, including Khumbhlainai (Bodo wrestling), Naw Khylor Geet, Mahao, Thang-Ta, Rimin Nalebao and Peng Walk, were also organised.

Daimary said such events provide an important platform to showcase Assam’s diverse sporting traditions and indigenous games while encouraging the younger generation to remain physically active and connected with their cultural heritage.

Director of Sports and Youth Welfare Ankur Bharali and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Nayan Moni Saikia were also present on the occasion.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash