How Did Madhya Pradesh’s Mallakhamb Stars Shine in KIYG 2025?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Discover how Madhya Pradesh's Mallakhamb stars, Devendra Patidar and Sidhi Gupta, made headlines at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025. With remarkable performances, they showcased their talent and determination in a competition that highlights the growing popularity of indigenous sports.
Key Takeaways
- Devendra Patidar won four gold medals in Mallakhamb.
- Sidhi Gupta secured three gold medals.
- The competition took place at the IIM Campus in Gaya.
- Mallakhamb is gaining popularity due to government support.
- Athletes are motivated to excel in traditional sports.
Gaya, May 8 (NationPress) Madhya Pradesh athletes Devendra Patidar and Sidhi Gupta stood out as the top performers in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 Mallakhamb competition, wrapping up at the IIM Campus. Patidar secured an impressive four gold medals while Gupta followed closely with three.
Patidar clinched three individual golds in addition to the team title achieved on the opening day. He demonstrated remarkable skill, winning both the All-round and Pole events. In the pole competition, he narrowly defeated Rakesh Kumar Werda from Chhattisgarh, despite both athletes tying on scores; the chief judge’s higher evaluation awarded Patidar the victory.
Even the chief judge faced challenges in determining the winner between Patidar and Nishant Pappu Lokhande from Maharashtra during the Hanging finals. His only setback came against Rohith Sairam of Tamil Nadu, who outperformed him in the Rope event.
Patidar expressed his surprise at his success, stating, “Honestly, I didn’t anticipate earning five medals from this competition. This achievement has truly motivated me, and I aim to improve further,” said the 17-year-old athlete.
The state of Maharashtra also celebrated a second gold medal through Aarya Jayvantrao Salunkhe in the Rope event, preventing Gupta from achieving a clean sweep of individual golds.
Yogesh Malviya, Chairman of the Mallakhamb Steering Committee, emphasized the immense potential of this indigenous sport, stating, “The Khelo India Youth Games provide a significant platform for Mallakhamb, thanks to the government’s focus on promoting traditional sports. Observing the current trends, the sport is becoming increasingly popular,” he remarked.
Point of View
It's heartening to witness the success of indigenous sports like Mallakhamb at a national platform. Athletes like Devendra Patidar and Sidhi Gupta are not only making their states proud but are also inspiring a new generation to embrace traditional sports. The government's initiative through the Khelo India Youth Games is commendable and essential for the growth of our cultural heritage.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the top athletes in the KIYG 2025 Mallakhamb competition?
The top athletes were Devendra Patidar and Sidhi Gupta from Madhya Pradesh, with Patidar winning four gold medals and Gupta securing three.
What is Mallakhamb?
Mallakhamb is a traditional Indian sport that involves performing acrobatics and yoga postures on a vertical wooden pole or rope.
Where did the KIYG 2025 Mallakhamb competition take place?
The competition took place at the IIM Campus in Gaya.
What did Devendra Patidar say about his performance?
Devendra Patidar expressed that he didn't expect to win five medals and that the achievement motivated him to improve further.
What impact do the Khelo India Youth Games have on indigenous sports?
The Khelo India Youth Games provide a significant platform for indigenous sports like Mallakhamb, promoting their popularity and encouraging young athletes.
