In the heart of Ladakh’s breathtaking high-altitude landscape, where temperatures plunge to a bone-chilling -12 degrees Celsius, the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 burst into life with an unforgettable opening ceremony. Held at the NDS Stadium’s ice hockey arena in Leh, this event isn’t just about sports—it’s a testament to India’s unyielding spirit, turning frozen grounds into playgrounds of passion and patriotism. Captured in highlights from Prasar Bharati Sports’ YouTube channel, the ceremony blended cultural vibrancy, athletic prowess, and visionary speeches, setting the stage for a week of intense winter action from January 20 to 26.
A Warm Welcome in the Cold: Setting the Scene
As spectators bundled up against the harsh winter winds, the ceremony kicked off with an electric atmosphere. The Governor of UT Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, toured the venue, receiving briefings on the athletes and exploring the Hall of Fame—a tribute to Ladakh’s sporting legends, etched with stories of triumph and historical milestones. This backdrop highlighted the region’s growing role in India’s winter sports ecosystem, where ice hockey, speed skating, and the newly introduced figure skating take center stage.
Secretary Sports UT Ladakh, Shri Moses Kunzang, delivered a heartfelt welcome address on behalf of the administration and the sports-loving people of Ladakh. “Welcome to the land of high passes, known for its rich culture, traditions, and hospitality,” he proclaimed, extending greetings to participants from across India. He outlined the meticulous preparations, including top-notch accommodation, transportation, catering, and medical facilities to ensure athlete safety and comfort. Emphasizing the theme “Swachh Khel Swachh Ladakh,” Kunzang stressed the importance of cleanliness, sustainability, and environmentally responsible sports. “We believe sports should not only raise champions but also promote responsible citizens,” he added, underscoring the event’s dual focus on athletic excellence and societal values.
The address also spotlighted Ladakh’s infrastructure leaps: a state-of-the-art facility nearing completion, upgrades to existing venues, and plans to expand to snow events in the future. With gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sports Authority of India, and other stakeholders, Kunzang wished all teams a fair, safe, and memorable championship, closing with a resounding “Jai Hind, Jule.”
Cultural Spectacle: Unity Through Dance and Music
No Indian celebration is complete without a splash of culture, and Leh’s opening ceremony was no exception. A vibrant contingent parade showcased teams from 19 states, the Indian Army, and ITBP, marching in unity. The Ladakh Scouts Regiment (LSRC) delivered a stirring pipe band performance, earning thunderous applause for their dual role as border guardians and entertainers.
The cultural program stole the show with energetic songs and dances performed by local youngsters on the ice. Children glided across mats, adding a layer of innocence and grandeur to the proceedings. Lyrics echoed themes of perseverance and national pride: “Khelo India ji Jo khelega wahi khelega” (Whoever plays will shine), urging courage, strength, and unity. Another chant, “Kabhi bhun na hok chal chal bhi man se bhi,” encouraged relentless forward momentum, while “Come from the east, come from the west, come from the south, play from the north” celebrated India’s diverse fabric uniting in “Bharat milega” (India unites).
An exhibition of ice kiting added a thrilling visual element, hinting at the innovative spirit of Ladakh’s youth.
On-Ice Action: Exhibition Match Heats Up the Rink
The ceremony’s highlight was an exhilarating ice hockey exhibition match between UT Ladakh (in white) and the Indian Army (in red)—a rematch of last year’s finals. Commentary buzzed with excitement: Ladakh’s surprise semi-final victory over ITBP last year set the stage for potential revenge, but the game unfolded as a defensive masterclass.
Over two periods, both teams displayed lightning-fast plays on the pristine new rinks. Goalkeepers shone brightly, with Ladakh’s Nawaz Ali making crucial saves to keep the scoreboard at 0-0. The draw left fans craving more, teasing the full competitions ahead. As the narrator put it, “Winter Warriors are going to break every limit of theirs” in the coming days.
Visionary Voices: Speeches Inspiring the Next Generation
Chief Secretary of Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, praised the local youth’s passion for skating, even on frozen ponds in remote areas. He urged Ladakh players on the Indian team to aim for Olympic gold, congratulating all participants on their dedication.
The pinnacle came from Lieutenant Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta, who beamed with pride over Ladakh hosting the games for the third consecutive year. “It is a matter of pride for Ladakh to host the Khelo India Winter Games for the last three consecutive years,” he said, proving the region’s capability in extreme conditions. Detailing the seven-day schedule—culminating on Republic Day—Gupta highlighted participation from across India and new additions like figure skating, with curling eyed for next year.
He showcased infrastructure investments: the Rs 53-58 crore NDS Ice Hockey Rink, Gupuk Pond, Ladakh Scouts Centre, and an upcoming rink in Kargil for year-round training. Ladakh’s first sports policy was a key mention, focusing on grassroots development, inclusivity for women and para-athletes, scholarships, and awards up to Rs 100 crore. Gupta also tied in sports tourism initiatives like the Climate Cup and marathons, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for empowering youth and integrating winter sports nationally.
Declaring the games open, Gupta envisioned Ladakh as India’s winter sports hub, thanking all involved for making it possible.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Excellence
The opening ceremony of Khelo India Winter Games 2026 wasn’t just an event—it was a celebration of resilience, culture, and ambition. From past stars like Telangana’s Nayana Shri, who clinched gold in speed skating in 2025, to the promise of emerging talents, this edition promises nonstop action and unbreakable records.
As the games unfold, they embody the essence of Khelo India: fostering talent, promoting unity, and inspiring a nation to embrace winter sports.
