Unveiling Sporting Splendor: Karnataka to Host Khelo India University Games 2021
Embarking on the realm of sports, Karnataka is set to host the grand spectacle of the Khelo India University Games 2021.
In a concerted effort to harness athletic prowess aimed at global representation, including the illustrious Olympics, the state of Karnataka is poised to welcome the second edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) later this calendar year. This momentous announcement was jointly declared by the honorable state chief minister BS Yediyurappa and the esteemed Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, echoing through the corridors of sports enthusiasts nationwide.
The vibrant city of Bengaluru, with its dynamic energy, will serve as the primary arena, embracing Jain University as its nucleus while extending its reach to various venues across the state, forming a partnership with the prestigious Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
KIUG, a beacon of sporting excellence, holds the distinction of being the largest University Games in the country, sculpted to unearth and nurture budding sporting talent, destined to adorn the global stage of athletic conquests, including the coveted Olympics.
Rewinding to its inaugural edition in Bhubaneswar back in February 2020, the fervor of KIUG reverberated across the nation, captivating the hearts of 3182 athletes in the U-25 age category, hailing from 158 universities and colleges spanning the geographical tapestry of India.
As the curtain rises on this year’s spectacle, the canvas of sporting disciplines expands to encompass the traditional arts of Yogasana and Mallakhamb, paying homage to the rich heritage of sporting legacy ingrained in the fabric of the nation.
With these cherished additions, the grand symphony of athlete participation is poised to crescendo, eclipsing the 4000 mark, infusing the aura of anticipation with an electrifying fervor.
Echoing the sentiments of the occasion, Yediyurappa expressed his privilege in hosting KIUG 2021, exuding confidence in the emergence of future champions who will adorn the annals of Indian sporting glory. Pledging unwavering support, the Government of Karnataka vows to orchestrate a spectacle of unparalleled grandeur, leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the resounding success of the University Games.
Envisioning a panorama of even greater magnitude, Rijiju emphasized the pivotal role of University-level athletics in sculpting the sporting icons of tomorrow, drawing parallels with the global sporting powerhouses where the University Games serve as the nurturing grounds for Olympic champions, igniting the flame of inspiration across the sporting fraternity.