Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spotlighted the remarkable transformation of Varanasi into a major centre for sports, inaugurating the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament via video conference from Delhi. Addressing players and officials, the PM emphasized that his parliamentary constituency is fast emerging as an ideal destination for hosting mega national and international events.
Varanasi's Sporting Ascent and Cultural Welcome
Chanting 'Har Har Mahadev', Prime Minister Modi extended a warm welcome to volleyball athletes from across the nation. He expressed his joy in Bhojpuri, stating, "Banaras ke janey chahat haua ta Banaras aawe padi" (If you want to know Varanasi, then you will have to come here). He drew a parallel between the city's ancient legacy of welcoming seekers of knowledge and art and its modern role in hosting prestigious gatherings.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Varanasi has already proven its capability by successfully organizing events like the G20 meetings, the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, the Pravasi Bharatiya Sammelan, and its role as the cultural capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He described the city as one of sports lovers, where traditional disciplines like wrestling, boxing, boat races, and kabaddi enjoy immense popularity and have produced numerous national-level players from institutions such as Banaras Hindu University (BHU), UP College, and Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth.
Infrastructure Boom and Local Impact
A key focus of the PM's address was the significant upgrade in sports infrastructure, which is benefiting both local talent and the regional economy. He noted that modern facilities are being developed and stadiums for various games are coming up across Varanasi.
The Sigra Stadium, the venue for the national volleyball championship, is now equipped with numerous modern amenities. New sports complexes are providing crucial training opportunities to aspiring players not just from Varanasi but also from nearby districts. Highlighting local participation, PM Modi shared that during the recently concluded Sansad Khel Mahotsav, approximately 3 lakh youths from the district and region demonstrated their sporting skills, contributing to a nationwide participation of nearly 1 crore youngsters.
Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat on the Court
Prime Minister Modi commended the players from 28 states, acknowledging their immense hard work to reach the national tournament. He stated that their efforts would be tested on the grounds of Varanasi in the coming days, and they were presenting a beautiful picture of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Great India).
He expressed confidence that the characteristic enthusiasm of Varanasi would provide a vibrant audience to cheer for the competitors throughout the championship. Securing a place on the country's sporting map through events like the National Volleyball Competition is highly significant for Varanasi's identity, he added.
Concluding with an encouragement to the athletes, the PM expressed hope that every spike, block, and point scored on the soil of Varanasi would elevate India's sporting aspirations and inspire a new generation.
