User:Sanjaynatkhat
Natkhat Khel Mahotsav is an annual multi-sport festival held in Banagaon, Saharsa, Bihar, India. It has gained widespread recognition for promoting traditional Indian sports and encouraging youth participation, particularly focusing on women's sports and rural talent. The event showcases a variety of sporting competitions, cultural programs, and community initiatives aimed at fostering athletic development.
History and Background
It is the brain child of Vijay Vardhana while it was promoted by Jha Rupesh. The festival originated as part of the Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mela, initially a small community event in Banagaon, spearheaded by Shri Hira Shankar Jha (Babu), the then-president of the Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mela Committee. Over the years, this initiative grew into one of Bihar's largest sports festivals. The transition from a local fair to a state-level sports event marked the beginning of the Natkhat Khel Mahotsav, with a mission to revive traditional Indian sports and provide a platform for budding athletes.
Organization and Structure
The festival is organized by the Natkhat Khel Mahotsav Committee, which includes local leaders, sports enthusiasts, and community figures. The organizing team comprises:
- President: Shashidhar Thakur
- Vice President: Shiva Katyayan
- Secretary: Jha Rupesh
- Treasurer: Pawan Khan
In addition to the core committee, the event benefits from the support of patrons and volunteers from the Banagaon community and beyond. Significant contributors include Pranay Prasoon Khan (Utpal), Kumod Chaudhary, and Bhola Nath Khan.
Events and Competitions
A major highlight of the festival is the Bihar State Women's Kabaddi Championship, which draws teams from across Bihar. The event is conducted under the supervision of the Bihar State Kabaddi Federation, ensuring high standards of competition and fair play.
Other sporting events featured during the Mahotsav include:
- Men’s and Women’s Kabaddi Tournaments: Organized in collaboration with the District Kabaddi Association and the Chainpur Kabaddi League.
- Track and Field Events: Various athletic competitions are held in partnership with the District Athletics Association, including running races, long jump, and relay races.
- Traditional Indian Sports: The festival places emphasis on reviving traditional games such as volllyball, wrestling & football,, promoting them alongside modern sports.
Notable Players and Performers
The festival has served as a platform for emerging talent from Bihar and beyond. Athletes who have made notable contributions to the event include:
Shamma Parveen , Indian Women kabaddi team player , winner of Ashian gold medal in 2018
Nanshi Priya: A star kabaddi player known for her aggressive play and leadership on the field. She has represented Bihar at the state level.
- Rohit Jha: A prominent figure in the district kabaddi scene, he has consistently performed in both the Natkhat Khel Mahotsav and regional tournaments.
- Nisha Kumari: A rising star in women’s kabaddi, she has competed at the Bihar State Women’s Kabaddi Championship and is recognized for her agility and strategic gameplay.
- Kundan Kumar: A talented athlete in multiple sports, including kabaddi and wrestling, he has earned accolades for his performance at the district and state levels.
#### Sponsorship and Partners
The success of Natkhat Khel Mahotsav is bolstered by partnerships with local businesses, national brands, and community organizations. Key sponsors include:
- EaseMyTrip: The official travel partner of the festival.
- Punjab National Bank
- RCC Bricks Company
- Holiday Bookers DMC
- Narayana Medical Institue & Hospital, Saharsa
- Meena Rice Mill, Banagaon, Saharsa
These sponsors provide crucial support, enabling the event to grow and accommodate more participants and audiences each year. The involvement of local companies also highlights the event’s community-driven nature.
Social Impact
The festival has had a profound impact on the local community, particularly in fostering sports participation among young women. The Bihar State Women's Kabaddi Championship has played a crucial role in empowering female athletes from rural areas, offering them opportunities to compete at higher levels.
Additionally, the Mahotsav has revived interest in traditional sports, which had been waning in popularity. By including games like Vollyball and soccer, the festival helps preserve Bihar's cultural heritage while encouraging physical fitness among the youth.
Environmental Initiatives
The Natkhat Khel Mahotsav is also committed to promoting environmental awareness. The 'Go Green' Campaign, which runs parallel to the sports activities, aims to educate participants and spectators about the importance of sustainability. Initiatives include tree plantation drives, waste management efforts, and the promotion of eco-friendly practices during the festival.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, the organizing committee of the Natkhat Khel Mahotsav aims to expand the festival’s reach, attracting participants from beyond Bihar. There are plans to introduce more sports, create a talent development program for rural athletes, and continue to promote traditional games.
The long-term vision is to establish the festival as a major sporting event not just in Bihar but across India, serving as a model for rural sports development. By offering a platform for grassroots athletes, Natkhat Khel Mahotsav aspires to bring attention to the immense potential of rural youth in sports.
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