Isha Gramotsavam Set to Connect 80000 Rural Athletes Through India Wide Sports Festival
More than 80000 athletes from thousands of villages will take part in the 18th edition of Isha Gramotsavam with volleyball and throwball competitions leading to the national finale in Coimbatore
Thousands of villages across India are preparing to take part in the 18th edition of Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival that continues to encourage fitness, teamwork, and community participation. This year’s event is expected to bring together more than 80000 athletes representing over 40000 villages across 10 states and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Recognised by Khelo India, the tournament will see over 7000 teams competing in volleyball and throwball events. Nearly 15000 women athletes are also expected to participate, while competitors will battle for a total prize pool of Rs 1 crore.
The festival is being organised by Isha Outreach under its Action for Rural Rejuvenation programme. By taking sports to villages, the initiative aims to provide rural youth with opportunities to showcase their talent and build stronger community connections.
In Telangana, the opening round of matches will be held on July 18 and 19. Volleyball and throwball competitions are scheduled across Jangaon, Karimnagar, Siddipet, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, and Khammam, where local teams will compete for a place in the next stage.
The competition will continue on July 25 and 26 in several other districts. Volleyball matches are planned in Jagtial, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Nizamabad, and Rangareddy. Mahabubnagar, Medak, Sangareddy, and Warangal will host both volleyball and throwball events, while Nalgonda and Rajanna Sircilla will conduct throwball competitions.
Teams emerging victorious from the regional rounds will qualify for the grand finale at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore from September 4 to 6. Registrations remain open, giving eligible rural players an opportunity to compete on a larger national platform.
