Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) annual sports festival kicked off on Monday with indoor games, including chess and carrom, as well as competitions in cricket and badminton, bringing together corporators, officials and employees as part of the Self-Government Day 2026 celebrations.
The indoor games were inaugurated by BMC Mayor Sulochana Das at the civic body’s headquarters. Deputy Mayor Manjulata Kanhar, BMC Commissioner and Recreation Club president Chanchal Rana, corporators, senior officials, employees and members of the Recreation Club were present at the inaugural programme.
Highlighting the importance of sports and recreational activities in a busy work environment, Das said such events provide employees with an opportunity to take a break from their routine and help create renewed interest in their work.
“Sports and entertainment are essential to bring some joy into our busy lives. They help reduce work-related stress and create interest in work,” Das said.
She added that the annual sports festival also provides a platform for people to showcase their sporting abilities.
“Many hidden talents get an opportunity to showcase their sports skills through this annual event. It also builds a strong bridge between elected representatives and the executive,” she said.
Rana said the BMC has organised the annual sports festival this year as part of its regular initiative to promote sports and recreation among its elected representatives and workforce.
“The festival will be held in various phases and competitions will be organised in disciplines such as chess, carrom, cricket and badminton,” Rana said.
Corporators, officers and employees, including both men and women, are participating in the competitions.
The sports festival is being organised as part of the Self-Government Day 2026 celebrations. According to the BMC Recreation Club, a cultural programme will be held on August 31, marking the culmination of the festivities.
