CHANDIGARH: The grand closing ceremony of the “Khelo Chandigarh Games 2026,” organized by the Sports Cell of BJP Chandigarh, concluded with immense fervor at the Convention Centre, Panjab University, Sector-25. The mega event, which successfully created a competitive platform for thousands of budding players, witnessed the presence of athletes, sports enthusiasts, and highly distinguished political and academic dignitaries.
Union Minister of State and Member of Parliament S.P. Singh Baghel graced the landmark occasion as the Chief Guest, while Haryana Cabinet Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma attended as the Guest of Honour. Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu was also present as a Special Guest.
Felicitating Future Champions
During the closing ceremony, outstanding athletes who excelled across various sporting disciplines were formally felicitated. Medals and certificates were awarded to players securing the first, second, and third positions in their respective competitions by the visiting dignitaries, who wished the young achievers a bright future.
BJP Chandigarh President Jitender Pal Malhotra revealed that a total of 2,652 players registered and participated enthusiastically in the games. Malhotra expressed his gratitude to Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig and Director Sports Rakesh Malik for their seamless support and coordination. He also lauded Sports Cell Convener Prabhjeet Singh Lamba for originally proposing the concept of the Khelo Chandigarh Games.
Leaders Emphasize Sports for Nation-Building
Addressing the massive gathering, Chief Guest S.P. Singh Baghel congratulated the sports cell, stating that it is undertaking visionary work normally expected from an official sports ministry. He remarked that an event of this magnitude would inspire other political organizations to launch positive initiatives for the youth.
“A healthy mind resides in a healthy body, and a healthy mind is essential for building a strong, prosperous, and developed nation,” Minister Baghel emphasized, urging the youth to make sports an integral part of their daily lives.
Haryana Cabinet Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma described the games as an exemplary initiative, adding that today’s athletes are the nation-builders of tomorrow. He stated that sports serve as a powerful medium for developing discipline, leadership, confidence, and team spirit rather than just being about victory or defeat.
Similarly, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unprecedented efforts are being made to promote a robust sporting culture across India. He highlighted that youth power is India’s greatest asset and that sports play a vital role in shaping self-reliant, nation-oriented citizens.
The high-octane ceremony concluded with a collective resolve among the participants to continue promoting sportsmanship and contribute toward building a healthy and developed India.
