Kataka: Ravenshaw University celebrated National Sports Day 2026 by organising competitions with an emphasis on fitness, discipline and teamwork at the University Sports Field here on Saturday.
The event was organised to mark the birth anniversary of legendary Indian hockey player Major Dhyan Chand and encourage students to take part in sports and fitness activities.
Ravenshaw University vice-chancellor Prof. Arka Kumar Das Mohapatra attended the event as the chief guest, while Olympian and Arjuna Awardee K. Ravi Kumar was the guest of honour. The celebrations included a series of inter-hostel sporting competitions.
Olympian K. Ravi Kumar shares journey with students
Speaking at the event, K. Ravi Kumar spoke about the struggles he faced during his early days as an aspiring sportsperson. He recalled the hard work and perseverance that helped him achieve his dream of representing India at the Olympics.
His story connected with the students, as he encouraged them to stay focused on their goals and work hard. Ravi Kumar said hard work is the foundation of success and also appreciated the government’s Fit India campaign.
Ravenshaw University honours sporting talent
Vice-chancellor Prof. Arka Kumar Das Mohapatra congratulated the winners and participants for their enthusiasm and sporting spirit.
He said Ravenshaw University is committed to developing sporting talent and providing students with more opportunities to excel in sports. He also stressed the university’s resolve to provide the necessary support and encouragement to help produce promising sportspersons who can bring recognition to the university and the country.
The programme ended with the distribution of prizes and a vote of thanks by Dr Anjan Kumar Khuntia.
The event was coordinated by Prof Dharmabrata Mohapatra, chairman of the Sports Council, along with Dr Abhisekh Sharma, Dr Jagyaseni Rout, Dr Satyabrata Behera, Dr D B Talli, Kalinga Das, Mahesh Malla, Amara Bhanja, Aurobin Rath, Arabinda Khuntia, Piyush Parida, Smrutirekha Sahu and Sidhiksha Pradhan.
Inter-hostel competition winners and results:
Tug of War (Men): New PG Hostel — Champion; JC Hostel — Runner-up
Tug of War (Girls): Day Scholar Team — Champion; Devi Hostel — Runner-up
Throwball (Girls): Mahanadi Hostel — Champion; Daya Hostel — Runner-up
Volleyball (Boys): Lalitgiri Hostel — Champion; East Hostel — Runner-up
