South Asian Games 2016

The 12th South Asian Games are to be held in Guwahati & Shillong from 5th Feb, 2016 to 16-Feb-2016 and will be the biggest sporting extravaganza ever held in the North East India and the 1st ever gender equal South Asian Games with men and women participation in all the sports. The Games at Guwahati and Shillong will have 23 disciplines and 228 events, thus making this edition the biggest ever. ‘Focus and concentration stays the key in tournaments, and we have to remain switched on through-out the matches if we are to win the 12th South Asian Games’. It was formerly known as the South Asian Federation (SAF) Games and was first held in 1984. After the IOA’s suspension was revoked by the IOC, Kerala was tipped to host the Games but the event was handed to Guwahati and Shillong previous year before another round of postponement.

Bangladesh capital Dhaka had hosted the last edition in 2010 and India had run away with a tally of a whopping 175 medals out of 528 on offer, including 90 gold out of 157, to hold on to regional superpower status.

This sports meet, for me signifies a flawless blend of 3 Ts – Talent, Teamwork and Togetherness.

Apart from the lighting of the torch, there was another remarkable event – the mixing of water which was brought from seven separate bodies of water across South Asia as a sign of solidarity.

The waters from Kabul (Afghanistan), Sindhu (Pakistan), Indian Ocean (Maldives as it has no river), Mahaweli (Sri Lanka), Padma (Bangladesh), Kosi (Nepal), Manas (Bhutan) and Brahmaputra (India) were later mixed as one to show oneness of South Asia and then taken to be immersed in Brahmaputra.

Mukul Sangma said: “People in this part of the country are some of the most passionate sports lovers”. Sportsmen’s spirit will help you not just on the field but also in other aspects of life. I always say – Jo Khele, woh Khile.

I am sure that as the Games proceed, this feeling of friendship trust and understanding will convert itself not only into sporting opportunities but also into business and tourism opportunities as well.

We can celebrate our diversity, and at the same time, be united under common rules for our sports, and the shared values of honesty and fair play.

A colourful performance by dancers from across India depicting the rich cultural heritage of the country was also the highlight of the ceremony.

“All South Asian countries are partners in our journey towards development…My vision for South Asia is same as my vision for India – Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”, he said.