Game on: Delhi gears up for Khelo Mahakumbh

New Delhi: Delhi is set to kick off the Khelo Mahakumbh on Friday, an initiative aimed at promoting sports culture among the youth and providing structured competitive opportunities across the capital. Conceived as a month-long sporting festival, the Delhi Khelo Mahakumbh seeks to channel young talent, encourage fitness and integrate sports into daily life. A day before the opening ceremony, education minister Ashish Sood met several sports influencers, fitness coaches and Arjuna Awardees to discuss ways to motivate young athletes. The interaction focused on the role of mentors and sporting icons in shaping participation at the grassroots level. The event is expected to draw more than 30,000 athletes, with competitions scheduled across 17 stadiums. "We involved athletes, influencers and people from the fitness industry because they can inspire many. Delhi has no shortage of talent; what is needed is the right platform and consistent opportunities," Sood said. Sood added that over 16,000 athletes have already registered, and the govt is working towards achieving more than 30,000 entries this year. Modelled on Khelo India, the Delhi Khelo Mahakumbh will host competitions in seven disciplines during its initial phase, including football, basketball, volleyball and kabaddi. Matches will be held across key stadiums, including Chhatrasal Stadium, as well as venues in Bawana, Najafgarh, Vikaspuri, south Delhi and other locations. Sood said hosting events across multiple venues would also help identify gaps in Delhi's sports infrastructure. "This will guide future upgrades and capacity expansion," he said. The inauguration ceremony at Chhatrasal Stadium will be led by chief minister Rekha Gupta. A march-past by Delhi's para-athletes will headline the opening, highlighting inclusivity as a core theme. Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has been appointed the brand ambassador for the Khelo Mahakumbh, a move aimed at increasing youth engagement and raising the profile of the event.