DATE
5/30/2025
LOCATION
The majestic city of Pokhara, known for its tranquil lakes and Himalayan backdrop, came alive with youthful energy and sportsmanship during the Indo-Nepal International Championship 2025, held from April 18 to 22 at the historic Rangasala Stadium. The five-day sporting event, organized by the School Games and Activity Development Foundation (SGADF), saw an enthusiastic turnout of young athletes from both India and Nepal. Among the many sports featured, it was Yoga that took center stage—where Indian participants delivered remarkable performances and clinched numerous medals across categories. The championship was a vibrant blend of athletic excellence, cultural exchange, and international camaraderie. The stadium witnessed students from both countries showcasing not just their physical talents but also their discipline, focus, and mutual respect. A Championship of Purpose and Performance From the very first day, the event carried the spirit of unity and healthy competition. With enthusiastic flag parades, cultural presentations, and the roar of spectators from both nations, the stage was set for an unforgettable week of sport. Participants competed across several disciplines including athletics, kabaddi, martial arts, team games, and Yoga. Yet it was Yoga that truly captivated the crowd. With its roots deeply embedded in Indian culture, the Yoga performances displayed by the Indian contingent stood out for their technical perfection, creativity, and synchronized grace. Each routine reflected months of intense training, and the effort was visible in the flawless execution of every posture. The judges, officials, and audiences were quick to acknowledge the high standards exhibited by the Indian Yoga team. The athletes demonstrated advanced techniques in various segments, including traditional, artistic, rhythmic, and synchronized Yoga routines. Their routines not only earned top scores but also widespread admiration from attendees. By the end of the championship, the Yoga discipline proved to be one of India’s strongest contributions to the event, as the team secured an impressive number of medals—significantly adding to India’s overall tally. Promoting Sportsmanship and Cultural Exchange Beyond the competition, the championship succeeded in promoting cross-border friendships and cultural understanding. Athletes participated in collaborative workshops on sportsmanship, Yoga philosophy, nutrition, and injury management. Interactive cultural evenings featured traditional music, dance, and joint Yoga performances that celebrated the shared heritage of India and Nepal. The atmosphere throughout the event remained respectful and uplifting, with athletes, coaches, volunteers, and spectators embracing the spirit of collaboration. These exchanges played a vital role in not only enhancing the athletes' experiences but also in promoting peace and harmony between the neighboring countries. SGADF’s International Footprint The Indo-Nepal International Championship was made possible through the efforts of the School Games and Activity Development Foundation (SGADF), a prominent organization dedicated to youth sports and extracurricular development at the school level. SGADF is internationally recognized as a member of TAFISA, IAKS, and ICSSPE, all of which are affiliated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). With its commitment to providing a structured platform for young athletes, SGADF has continuously worked toward promoting physical education, wellness, and competitive excellence among school students. This event in Pokhara marked another milestone in SGADF’s mission to empower youth through sport. The foundation ensured that the championship met international standards, from the setup of the stadium and equipment to the training of officials and volunteers. The seamless organization and international recognition of the event reinforced SGADF’s growing presence in the global school sports community. A Memorable Closing Ceremony The championship concluded on April 22 with a grand closing ceremony that celebrated the success of all participants. The event was graced by the Founder of SGADF, who is also a pistol shooter representing India on the national team. In his keynote address, he emphasized the importance of sports in shaping confident, capable, and responsible youth. He highlighted the values of discipline, focus, and international cooperation that the event represented and encouraged young athletes to continue striving toward excellence in both sport and life. His words resonated deeply with the audience and were followed by a spectacular flag-lowering ceremony, the distribution of medals, and cultural performances that brought the week to a celebratory end. Participants from both countries left the event with new friendships, unforgettable memories, and a renewed sense of purpose. The closing ceremony served not only as a farewell but also as a strong call to continue building a future where sport plays a central role in youth development and international unity. A Vision for the Future Following the event’s overwhelming success, SGADF has announced plans to make the Indo-Nepal International Championship an annual fixture, with future editions to be hosted alternately in India and Nepal. There is also a proposal to introduce new sports categories, including archery, esports, and para-sports, to ensure inclusivity and broader participation. As the buses departed Rangasala Stadium and the athletes headed home, one thing was clear—the Indo-Nepal International Championship 2025 was more than just a tournament. It was a symbol of hope, unity, and the boundless potential of youth when given the right platform.
