Khelo India University Games 2023: Himanta Biswa Sarma oversees final preparations for grand opening ceremony

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to the microblogging site X on February 19 to announce his immediate involvement in the final preparations for the Khelo India University Games 2023, slated to commence with a spectacular Opening Ceremony at 6 PM today at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati.

The event scheduled to kick off on February 19, promises a grand inauguration with the presence of Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, who will grace the inaugural ceremony.

Adding a touch of musical brilliance to the festivities, renowned playback singer and composer, Papon, is set to enthral the audience at the Sarusajai Sports Complex on February 19, setting the stage for an electrifying start to the Khelo India University Games 2023.

Spanning across the seven sister states of the North-East, the Games are set to captivate sports enthusiasts until February 29, hosting close to 4500 athletes from 200 Universities across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inspire the athletes through a special video message, amplifying the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Acknowledging Papon's inclusion as a significant highlight, Assam’s sports and youth welfare minister, Shrimati Nandita Garlosa, expressed excitement, stating, "Papon is a youth icon of India, and Guwahati will listen to him live. We have had the greatest of musicians like Bhupen Hazarika, but good music transcends generations."

The grand opening ceremony, open to all attendees free of charge, promises a thematic showcase emphasizing unity, diversity, and the essence of sportsmanship. Furthermore, the rich cultural heritage of Assam will be showcased through captivating displays of indigenous arts, enriching the overall experience.

Notably, the Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi commenced with kabaddi matches at the Sarusajai Stadium on Saturday, featuring eight teams vying for glory in two pools.

The Khelo India University Games, an integral part of the Indian government’s Khelo India initiative launched in 2016, aims to promote grassroots sports and unearth young talents from across the country.