First MP Sports Festival to be held in Pune November 2025 – Murlidhar Mohol
Pune, 30th August 2025: Pune will host the country’s first MP Sports Festival in November, soon after Diwali. The event, conceptualised under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Fit Youth for Viksit Bharat,” will feature 33 sporting disciplines with participation from thousands of players, including senior citizens and differently abled athletes.
Union cooperation and civil aviation minister and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol announced the event at a press conference held on National Sports Day at Deccan Gymkhana. He said, “The idea is to nurture a sporting culture in India under the Fit India movement. This festival will give everyone – from athletes to senior citizens and differently abled persons – a chance to showcase their skills. Competitions will include traditional Indian games as well as international sports. Around 20,000–25,000 players are expected.”
The coordination committee includes prominent names such as Olympic shooter and Khel Ratna awardee Anjali Bhagwat, chess Grandmaster Abhijit Kunte, and Arjuna awardees Surekha Dravid (kabaddi) and Rekha Bhide (hockey). Former cricketer Kedar Jadhav, kabaddi veteran Shantaram Jadhav, wrestler Sandeep Bhondwe, and Hind Kesari title-holder Yogesh Dodke were also present at the announcement.
Mohol added that for senior citizens, chess and carrom events would be held, while specially abled participants will compete in basketball and swimming. “The MP Sports Festival will serve as a platform to identify and encourage talented young athletes from across the country. Over the last decade, India has seen a surge in sporting achievements because of the government’s support through initiatives such as Khelo India. This festival will build on that momentum,” he said.
Event convener Manoj Erande, a Chhatrapati award-winning wrestler, highlighted Mohol’s personal connection with sports, saying, “Since he himself comes from a sporting background, he understands the needs of players. His detailed planning will ensure that athletes, sports, and fans remain at the centre of this event.”
Arjuna awardee and Olympian Manoj Pingale remarked, “India never lacked talent, but facilities and support were missing earlier. Under Modi ji, sports have received importance, and players are now winning medals at the world stage.”
Former kabaddi star Vilas Kathure noted that the development of sporting infrastructure in rural areas has given young athletes from remote regions an opportunity to shine.
