Nagrota: Abdul Gani of Punjab beat Shamsher Khan in the final of Banyal wrestling competition held at Bamyal and witnessed by hundreds of sports lovers on Monday at Bamyal.
Appreciating the wrestlers, National Conference Provincial President and MLA Nagrota Devender Singh Rana said he was happy to see them performing well and excelling in the traditional sport. He said the discipline and skills shown by the participating wrestlers would inspire the young people to participate in wrestling, which has gained international recognition and huge fan following despite dominance of cricket, soccer and other sports.
Rana said wrestling, like any other sport, builds connection and sense of togetherness among youth, which is imperative for harmonious growth of the society, free of tension and commotion being promoted by peace inimical elements.
The MLA appreciated the organisers for this event, saying wrestling is a traditional game that needs all the infrastructural facilities to flourish. He said engaging in traditional sports activities will improve the mental and physical health of the sports persons, who should strive for protecting the rich sports heritage of the State by giving their best to the games. He lauded the enthusiasm among the wrestling fans equally, saying this is reassuring that the game still holds big promise for talented youth. He congratulated the competitors for making the event live and breath-taking by putting in their best in the competition.
Rana described sports imperative for overall personality development and urged the youth to participate in the games in a big way, alongside pursuing academics. He complimented youth for showing keen interest in traditional games, adding that due to lack of avenues their talent generally remains confined to local confines only.
The Provincial President told the sports enthusiasts that the display of today’s Dhangal will serve as a source of inspiration for budding wrestlers. He hoped they will learn from the veterans and emulate their spirit. He said in this era of competition the youth have to be best in their chosen spheres.
He expressed happiness over the enthusiasm of rural youth in traditional games like wrestling, saying these still retains the sheen of yester years. “We have to maintain this momentum by giving fillip to these activities in a big way”, he said and hoped that the rural sportsmen will prove their mettle and make big in various state and national level event.
