Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reaffirmed the state’s commitment to revitalizing and promoting indigenous sports during a session titled ‘Indigenous Sports—From India to Global Stage’ at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) in Mumbai.
Speaking on the third day of the summit, Majhi emphasized the cultural and historical significance of traditional games like Kho Kho, Kabaddi, and Mallakhamb.
Majhi described these sports as more than mere competitions, highlighting their role as living traditions that embody the resilience, creativity, and wisdom of Odisha’s ancestors. He noted that they instill values such as teamwork, endurance, and respect for nature, connecting generations to their cultural roots.
The Chief Minister outlined Odisha’s efforts to nurture indigenous sports through infrastructure development and grassroots initiatives. The state is constructing stadiums in every block, establishing training centers at the panchayat level, and supporting rural talent to create champions at the village level. Odisha’s growing reputation as a sports hub was underscored by its hosting of events like the 71st Senior National Kabaddi Championship in Cuttack.
Majhi advocated for elevating traditional games to the global stage, emphasizing that preserving indigenous sports strengthens cultural identity and instills pride in future generations. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the central government and international federations to secure a prominent place for these sports worldwide, positioning tradition as a vibrant force for the future.
