~ Vijayi Bharat Foundation’s flagship grassroots league returns with new venues, expanded formats, and a mission to empower over 7,000 young athletes. ~
Ahmedabad, September 17, 2025: After the resounding success of its first two editions, the much-awaited Khele Sanand Season 3 initiative kicked-off on Wednesday, continuing its mission to nurture sporting talent at the grassroots level and foster community spirit.
The third season of Khele Sanand, the flagship grassroots initiative by Vijayi Bharat Foundation, officially commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony at the Sanskardham Campus. International Kho Kho players Pratik Waikar and Nirmala Bhati inaugurated the event, celebrating the league’s growing impact on youth development and community engagement across Sanand Taluka.
In its first two seasons, Khele Sanand emerged as a dynamic platform that nurtured young talent from over 90 schools, engaging more than 2500 students in indigenous sports such as Kabaddi, Kho Kho, and Volleyball. During Khel Mahakumbh, Khele Sanand has also sparked a remarkable 400 percent surge in girls’ participation in Kho Kho and a 39 percent increase in team registrations compared to its debut, breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity.
Now in its third year, Khele Sanand has evolved into a dynamic platform that nurtures young talent from over 120 schools, engaging more than 7,000 students.
Khele Sanand’s remarkable rise is powered by its community pillars. Over 150 local youth and adults stepped up as volunteers, taking on diverse roles, from coaches and referees to managers and hospitality teams, ensuring every match day ran smoothly.
The encouragement from more than 20 village Sarpanchs added a powerful layer of motivation for the players. Alongside them, several local businesses also stepped forward with support, further strengthening the sense of community ownership. This collective effort reflects the heart of Khele Sanand: a celebration of sport, unity, and grassroots empowerment.
Speaking at the launch, Ms. Nirmala Bhati emphasized the importance of sports in shaping disciplined, healthy, and focused youth, “Khele Sanand is not just a league, it is a movement that is redefining grassroots sport in Gujarat. It provides our children with a platform to develop values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience while also opening the door to bigger opportunities. Initiatives like this are critical because they bridge the gap between talent and exposure, preparing the next generation to not only dream of national and international platforms but to have the confidence and experience to get there.”
Echoing her thoughts, Mr. Pratik Waikar added, “Khele Sanand is more than a sports league, it is a powerful force for change. It nurtures ambition, builds self-belief, and gives young athletes the courage to imagine themselves representing India on national and global stages. What makes it special is that it brings entire communities together, instilling pride in traditional sports while giving rural and urban youth alike a chance to compete in a professional, structured environment. Season 3 is a testament to how far the league has come in just a few years, and the journey ahead looks even more promising.”
This season introduces new venues, expanded formats, and enhanced coaching facilities, reaffirming Khele Sanand’s commitment to building sustainable sports infrastructure. With participation expected to rise further, Season Three will carry forward the legacy of the first two editions, promising to empower youth through sport while strengthening community bonds. The league will run through April 2026, culminating in a grand finale that celebrates not only the winners but also the spirit of participation, teamwork, and resilience.
