Assam: Papon set to dazzle at Khelo India University Games opening in Guwahati

Guwahati: Amidst a palpable buzz, Guwahati is poised to host the grand opening ceremony of the fourth edition of the "Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi" (KIUG 2023).

Amplifying the glitz and glamour, Assam's internationally acclaimed musical sensation, Papon, is all set to grace the opening ceremony on Monday (February 19) at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati.

Known for his melodious voice, the performance promises an unforgettable musical extravaganza for the audience and the participants alike.

Union Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Anurag Singh Thakur will be attending the Khelo India University Games alongside Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be inspiring the athletes through a video message. This is the fourth edition of the ever-growing games. Close to 4,500 athletes from 200 Universities are participating in KIUG 2023.

Assam’s Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Nandita Garlosa said that Papon’s inclusion will add glamour to the opening ceremony extravaganza.

“Papon is a youth icon of India and Guwahati will listen to him live. We have had the greatest of musicians like the legend Bhupen Hazarika but good music does not understand any generation. Both Bhupen Hazarika and Papon are unique in their ways and not to forget Zubeen Garg,” Minister Garlosa said.

The grand opening of the games, which will welcome all attendees free of charge, will also feature a thematic showcase highlighting

the values of unity, diversity and the spirit of sportsmanship.

Additionally, the vibrant culture of Assam will take centre stage with captivating displays of indigenous arts, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to the event.

The KIUG 2023 will feature 20 sports disciplines over the next fortnight with competitions being held in 18 venues across Guwahati and six other Northeastern towns.

Accordingly, Guwahati will host a total of 16 disciplines during the KIUG 2023, reflecting the Assam government’s dedication to providing world-class sporting infrastructure.

This will include an array of events including athletics, rugby, basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, hockey, fencing, kabaddi, women’s football, tennis, mallakhamb, judo and table tennis.

Dibrugarh University has the largest contingent from Assam with six members while Manipur University with 19 athletes has the highest

representation from the Northeastern region.

Notably, the KIUG 2023 commenced on Saturday (February 17) with kabaddi matches at the Sarusajai Stadium. As many as eight teams divided into two pools are competing for glory.

The KIUG is a part of the Union government’s Khelo India initiative that was launched in 2016. The Khelo India mission focuses on promoting grassroots sports and identifying young talents from across the country.