The pristine sands of Ghoghla Beach in Diu came alive on January 5, 2026, as the second edition of the Khelo India Beach Games officially kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony. Over 1,300 athletes from 25 states and 6 union territories gathered under the sunny skies of this Blue Flag-certified beach, ready to compete in a thrilling lineup of beach sports from January 5 to 10.
The event, hosted by the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, promises high-energy action across six medal disciplines: Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Beach Sepak Takraw, Beach Kabaddi, Pencak Silat, and Open Water Swimming. Adding to the excitement, Mallakhamb and Tug of War will be featured as non-medal demonstration events, showcasing India’s diverse sporting heritage.
A Blend of Culture, Patriotism, and Sporting Spirit
The ceremony was a mesmerizing fusion of cultural performances, patriotic fervor, and inspirational speeches. It began with devotional prayers and songs dedicated to deities like Lord Krishna and Radha Rani, followed by rousing renditions of “Jai Jai Shri Ram” and the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana.” Folk dances and motivational chants like “Hindustani” and “Mother India’s Victory” energized the crowd, emphasizing unity and national pride.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recorded message set an uplifting tone, congratulating the organizers and athletes while highlighting the role of Khelo India in transforming India’s sports ecosystem. He praised the initiative for promoting beach sports that build endurance and adaptability, and for nurturing grassroots talent through modern infrastructure and programs like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme. PM Modi envisioned a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047, where youth excel in sports and contribute to national growth.
Key Speeches and Highlights from Dignitaries
Dr. Arun T, Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs for DNH & DD, welcomed guests and credited PM Modi and Administrator Praful Patel for the event’s success. He recapped the growth of Khelo India Beach Games, noting the 2024 edition’s participation from 28 states with over 1,400 athletes, and the 2025 event’s expansion to 31 states and 1,200+ participants. Dr. Arun emphasized the games’ impact on infrastructure development, talent discovery, and boosting tourism in the region.
Athlete Nandini Agasara, an Asian Championship gold medalist, shared her appreciation for Khelo India’s role in empowering youth and promoting inclusivity, drawing from her experiences in the 2024 games.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir congratulated the organizers and discussed the revolution in Indian sports, highlighting diversity and India’s soft power on the global stage. He also mentioned J&K’s strong performance in the 2025 edition, particularly in Pencak Silat.
Ceremonial Torch Lighting and Athlete Parade
A highlight was the torch relay, where medalists like Payal Parmar, Ajish Patel, and Jalpa Solanki carried the flame, symbolizing dreams and national pride, before lighting the ceremonial torch. This was followed by the hoisting of the Indian flag and a parade of athletes representing their states and union territories.
The event also introduced the mascot “Pearl,” a dolphin-inspired figure promoting environmental sustainability.
Looking Ahead: Competition and Legacy
Reflecting on the 2025 edition, commentators recapped top performers: Manipur led with 5 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze medals, followed by Maharashtra, Nagaland, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir. This year’s games aim to build on that legacy, fostering rivalries and new talent under the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative.
With a mix of senior and sub-junior categories (786 seniors and 263 sub-juniors), the competitions are set to showcase athletic prowess while promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and India’s coastal heritage. Broadcast live on Doordarshan, the Khelo India Beach Games 2026 not only celebrate sports but also unite the nation in a spirit of enthusiasm and respect for the tricolor.
