Wall art, competitions mark National Sports Day celebrations in Jalandhar

National Sports Day was observed with much fanfare in the city, widely recognised as the sports capital of India.

To mark the occasion, the district administration commissioned wall art murals around the District Administrative Complex, featuring symbolic representations of various sports. Figures depicting players engaged in hockey, football, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, swimming and other sports were painted along the frontal wall of the complex.

Artist Pawan, who was engaged for the artwork through a contractor, shared that he had earlier worked on the wall art at PAP Chowk as well. “Jalandhar is a sports city and people here really appreciate this kind of art,” he said. He also created a special section featuring the word ‘Yoga’, with each letter designed using different yoga asanas.

Among the various events held in the city, the 245 Battalion of CRPF Campus, Liddar, Jalandhar, organised an Inter-Company Volleyball and Debate Competition at the Battalion Headquarters. Commandant of the 245 Battalion, Brij Lal, Deputy Commandants Sukhwinder Singh Labana and Arvind Nanda, Under Commandant Ranbir Singh, subordinate officers and jawans were present on the occasion.

Winners of the competition were awarded prizes by Commandant Brij Lal, who emphasised that sports are an integral part of life, contributing to physical, mental and social well-being.

He encouraged people to view sports not just as entertainment or competition, but as a vital component of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

To promote sportsmanship and physical wellness among employees, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Regional Office Jalandhar, under the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India, organised a series of sports competitions.

The programme, inaugurated by Regional Commissioner Pankaj Kumar, saw enthusiastic participation from all officers and staff members. Competitions were held in chess, carrom, table tennis, badminton and cricket, where employees displayed both their sporting talents and a spirit of camaraderie.

DAV College, Jalandhar, paid tribute to legendary hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand on the occasion. The college hosted a friendly football match between Kehar Sporting Club and Jalandhar FC, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship among students and faculty.

Dr Manu Sood, Head of the Sports Department at DAV College, welcomed the guests and highlighted the institution’s rich legacy in sports. “The Department of Sports at DAV College has produced 29 Olympians and 22 state and national awardees,” he said.

In the match, Kehar Sporting Club defeated Jalandhar FC in a thrilling 5-2 encounter. Kashi, Kuldeep, Mohit, and Ranbir scored for Kehar Sporting Club, while Rahul and Aniket netted goals for Jalandhar FC. Mr Monu officiated the match as referee.

Sanskriti KMV School, Jalandhar, also celebrated the day with great enthusiasm. Principal Rachna Monga offered a floral tribute to Major Dhyan Chand’s portrait and addressed the students. “Sports are not just about winning or losing; they are about discipline, confidence, and the spirit of teamwork.

If our students embrace a healthy lifestyle and participate actively in sports, they will play a crucial role in building a strong and healthy society,” she said.