Athletes from Uttarakhand delivered an impressive performance at the national-level Khelo India Beach Games 2026, securing two medals in the martial art of Pencak Silat. The event was held from January 5 to 10 across the union territories of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Medal Haul for the Himalayan State
A five-member team comprising senior male and female players represented Uttarakhand at the prestigious competition. The state's medal hopes were realized by two standout performers. Chetan Prajapati fought his way to a silver medal in the highly competitive 70–75 kg category. Meanwhile, Ishu Bharti displayed great skill to secure a bronze medal in the 50–55 kg category, adding to the state's tally.
Leadership and Steady Growth of Pencak Silat
The Uttarakhand contingent was guided by chief de mission Ravindra Bhandari and nodal officer Anup Bisht, both appointed by the state government. Reflecting on the achievement, team head coach Bablu Diwakar stated that the results underscore the consistent development of Pencak Silat within Uttarakhand.
"Our Pencak Silat athletes have shown remarkable consistency over the past three years," Diwakar said. He highlighted the team's trajectory, noting, "Last year, the team won four silver and three bronze medals. This year, they successfully maintained that momentum by winning two medals on the concluding day of the games."
A Grand National Sporting Festival
The Khelo India Beach Games 2026 was a massive sporting spectacle that brought together over 1,300 athletes from 31 states and Union Territories. The competition featured six core sports: Pencak Silat, Sepak Takraw, open water swimming, soccer, kabaddi, and volleyball. Additionally, Mallakhamb and tug of war were included as demonstration sports, showcasing India's diverse sporting culture on a sandy stage.
This successful outing for Uttarakhand at a national event with such wide participation marks a significant milestone. It not only brings glory to the state but also promises to inspire a new generation of athletes in the region to take up and excel in sports like Pencak Silat.
