How Did MP Teams Get Inspired by PM Modi and Win Gold in Mallakhamb?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Madhya Pradesh's Mallakhamb teams have triumphed at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, inspired by PM Modi's support. With impressive scores, they showcase the potential of this ancient sport in modern India. Will Mallakhamb become a mainstream sport? Discover the athletes' journey and their hopes for the future!
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh dominated in both men’s and women’s Mallakhamb events at KIYG 2025.
- The teams were motivated by Prime Minister Modi's support for indigenous sports.
- Mallakhamb has a rich and historical significance in Indian culture.
- Growth in new Mallakhamb centers indicates rising interest in the sport.
- There is a strong desire among athletes to make Mallakhamb mainstream across India.
Gaya, May 7 (NationPress) The men’s and women’s Mallakhamb teams from Madhya Pradesh delivered stunning performances at the IIM Campus, securing top honors in the first medal round of indigenous sports at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Bihar.
The boys' squad, featuring Yuvraj Rao Ghadge, Devendra Patidar, Yatin Kori, Neeraj Kachhawa, Daksh Kahar, and Jayant Rathore, captivated the audience with an impressive score of 123.60 points across rope, hanging, and pole categories, outpacing fierce competitors Maharashtra (122.50) and Chhattisgarh (122.05).
Neeraj Kachhawa expressed that it was a remarkable achievement to defeat last year’s champions, Maharashtra. He candidly admitted that the team wasn't at its peak performance: “We could have done better. We take all our rivals seriously, but against Maharashtra, we give our all,” he stated.
The Madhya Pradesh athlete highlighted the gratitude felt by Mallakhamb competitors for the opportunities provided by the Khelo India Youth Games. Mallakhamb, which harmoniously blends Yogasana, Gymnastics, and Wrestling, boasts a rich history of several centuries and aspires to gain more recognition in India.
Kachhawa noted the transformative impact of the KIYG on Mallakhamb. “It has made the sport special. The facilities and atmosphere we've experienced at each successive KIYG are tremendous. It's truly wonderful that our Prime Minister shows interest in Mallakhamb,” he remarked.
Ghadge added, “I honestly say there aren’t many in my school who are aware of Mallakhamb. I genuinely want this sport to be recognized nationwide. It promotes health, both physically and mentally.”
Kachhawa also pointed out the emergence of new Mallakhamb centers throughout India. “I believe our sport will soon engrave itself into the national consciousness,” he said. Coincidentally, the Tamil Nadu girls' team also secured a podium finish, following the dominant Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra teams.
The results are as follows:
Men’s team: 1. Madhya Pradesh (Desh Kahar, Devendra Patidar, Jayant Rathore, Neeraj Kachhawa, Yatin Kori, Yuvraj Rao Ghadge) 123.60 points; 2. Maharashtra 122.50; 3. Chhattisgarh 122.05.
Women’s team: 1. Madhya Pradesh (Anushka Nayak, Ishika Naroliya, Mahi Rathore, Mansi)
Point of View
The Khelo India Youth Games represent a significant opportunity to elevate indigenous sports like Mallakhamb. The passion displayed by the athletes from Madhya Pradesh not only highlights their dedication but also reflects the growing interest in traditional sports within the country. As media, we must continue to support these efforts to promote and preserve our cultural heritage.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mallakhamb?
Mallakhamb is a traditional Indian sport that combines elements of Yogasana, gymnastics, and wrestling, with a history spanning several centuries.
Who won the gold medals in Mallakhamb at KIYG 2025?
The Madhya Pradesh men and women’s teams won gold medals in Mallakhamb at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025.
What inspired the Madhya Pradesh teams at KIYG 2025?
The teams drew inspiration from Prime Minister Modi's interest in promoting Mallakhamb and other indigenous sports.
How is Mallakhamb gaining popularity in India?
With the establishment of new training centers and increased visibility through events like the Khelo India Youth Games, Mallakhamb is on the path to becoming a mainstream sport.
What are the scores of the top teams in the men's Mallakhamb competition?
Madhya Pradesh scored 123.60 points, followed by Maharashtra with 122.50 points and Chhattisgarh with 122.05 points.
