Guwahati, 18th February: Guwahati is gearing up to host the grand opening ceremony of the fourth edition of the Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi. Adding to the excitement, Assam’s renowned musical sensation, Papon, is all set to grace the opening ceremony on February 19th at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Sarusajai Sports Complex, Guwahati. With his melodious voice, Papon’s performance promises an unforgettable musical extravaganza for the audience and participants alike.
Union Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Anurag Singh Thakur, will join Assam Chief Minister Himata Biswa Sarma at the Khelo India University Games. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inspire the athletes through a video message. This fourth edition of the Games boasts the participation of close to 4500 athletes from 200 Universities.
Expressing her excitement, Assam’s sports and youth welfare minister, Shrimati Nandita Garlosa, stated that Papon’s inclusion will add glamour to the opening ceremony extravaganza. She highlighted Papon’s status as a youth icon and emphasized the transcendence of good music across generations.
The grand opening, welcoming all attendees free of charge, will feature a thematic showcase highlighting the values of unity, diversity, and sportsmanship. The vibrant culture of Assam will also take center stage with captivating displays of indigenous arts, enriching the event with cultural immersion.
The Khelo India University Games will feature 20 sports disciplines over the next fortnight, with competitions held in 18 venues across Guwahati and six other Northeastern cities. Guwahati will host a total of 16 disciplines, reflecting the state government’s commitment to providing world-class sporting infrastructure.
The Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi kicked off on Saturday with kabaddi matches at the Sarusajai Stadium, where eight teams are vying for glory.
The KIUG is part of the Indian government’s Khelo India initiative, launched in 2016, focusing on promoting grassroots sports and identifying young talents nationwide.
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