National Sports Day 2026 was celebrated today at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, Sarusajai, with a series of sporting competitions, demonstrations and programmes aimed at promoting sports, fitness and Assam’s rich indigenous sporting traditions.
The programme was attended by Minister for Sports & Youth Welfare Assam, Biswajit Daimary, along with other dignitaries. A ceremonial lamp was lit and floral tributes were offered in memory of Major Dhyan Chand.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Shri Biswajit Daimary said that National Sports Day is an occasion to reaffirm the commitment towards building a strong sporting culture in Assam and encouraging children and youth to take up sports.
He highlighted the success of Khel Maharan Assam, which has provided a grassroots platform for identifying and nurturing sporting talent across the State, and said that such initiatives will continue to receive emphasis.
While recalling the remarkable contribution of Major Dhyan Chand to Indian sports, the Minister said that his life and achievements continue to inspire generations of sportspersons. He emphasised the importance of discipline, dedication and perseverance in achieving excellence in sports.The celebration 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 as part of the celebration.
The Minister noted that such events provide an important platform for showcasing Assam’s diverse sporting traditions and indigenous games while inspiring 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 Medalist, Nayan Moni Saikia were also present on the occassion.
