GUWAHATI, Jan 22 - The Khelo India Youth Games came to an end here today, crowning Maharashtra the champions during a power-packed and entertaining closing ceremony.
Defending champions Maharashtra romped to a whopping 256 medals, including 78 gold and 77 silver. Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal and Union Minister of State, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Rameshwar Teli, presented the trophy to the winners .
�I would like to congratulate all the participating teams from across states and everyone who has been part of this journey of making Khelo India Youth Games 2020 a mega success. Over the past 13 days the city was on song, witnessing some scintillating sports action. There was a feeling of competitive spirit and sportsmanship amongst all contestants and at the end we saw Maharashtra winning the championship. The tournament is a big boost towards achieving our Prime Minister Narendra Modi�s long term vision of Fit India movement. I salute the hard work of all athletes that participated in the games as they will be the ones who will go on to bring major sporting laurels for our country globally,� said Sonowal.
Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju, State finance minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, were among the many dignitaries and local celebrities who graced the occasion.
Immediately after the awards ceremony, Assam showcased their rich cultural heritage in a crisp and beautiful show, led by a modern creative dance performance by Aimee Baruah.
Before a range of local performers hit the stage, Chinese martial artists wowed the audience with their speed, power and elegance. They were specially flown in to mark the 70th year of the India-China friendship.
Performances by Tarulata Kutum with Mising dancers, Sajan Nayak with Jhumuir dancers and a solo by Babita Sharma set the mood for the evening. Popular Assamese singer Jitul Sonowal too charmed everybody. In between, Krishnamoni Chutia performed the Bihu song which was choreographed by Pankaj Engti, to the delight of the local fans.
The evening was topped up by a live concert by Bollywood singing star Shaan. The playback singer got the audience, including the athletes, on their feet as he belted out a series of his hit numbers.