Bastar (Chhattisgarh) [India], December 29: In his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the unique sports event, the Bastar Olympics, calling it a “new revolution” for the region. Speaking in the 117th episode of his monthly address, the Prime Minister highlighted the cultural significance of the event, noting the mascots of the Bastar Olympics—the ‘Wild Water Buffalo’ and ‘Hill Myna’—which represent the rich heritage of the area.
PM Modi also shared the mantra of the Bastar Olympics, “Karsay Ta Bastar Barsaye Ta Bastar,” meaning “Bastar will play – Bastar will win.” This event, held annually by the Chhattisgarh Sports and Youth Welfare Department, offers an opportunity for the youth, especially those affected by naxal activities, to showcase their sporting talents. The Bastar Olympics spans seven districts of Bastar: Kanker, Kondagaon, Bijapur, Bastar, Sukma, Dantewada, and Narayanpur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also attended the event, distributing prizes to the winners.
In addition to lauding the Bastar Olympics, Prime Minister Modi spoke about various sports and fitness initiatives being organized across the country during the winter season. “From skiing in Kashmir to kite flying in Gujarat, enthusiasm for sports can be seen everywhere,” he noted. The Prime Minister also highlighted campaigns like ‘Sunday On Cycle’ and ‘Cycling Tuesday,’ which are promoting cycling as part of efforts to encourage a healthier and more active lifestyle.
The Fit India Cycling Drive was launched earlier this month by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. The event saw over 500 riders, including members from the CRPF, ITBP, Sports Authority of India (SAI) campers, and various cycling clubs. In Kolkata, the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ event was flagged off by Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee Table Tennis player Mouma Das at the Sports Authority of India National Centre of Excellence.
In his address, PM Modi emphasized the growing importance of sports and fitness, celebrating the diverse sporting activities that are becoming an integral part of India’s culture.
‘Mann Ki Baat’ is Prime Minister Modi’s monthly radio program, launched on October 3, 2014. The program connects with the people of India on various issues, and is broadcast across 22 Indian languages, 29 dialects, and 11 foreign languages, reaching listeners through more than 500 centers of All India Radio.