The ongoing Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg has received a significant impetus with the active participation of over 600 players and officials, complemented by the invaluable mentorship and guidance of six Olympians. Their involvement underscores the event’s growing stature and its potential to nurture talent and promote winter sports in India.
Among the Olympians lending their expertise to the games is Sheva Keshavan, a six-time winter Olympian in Luge and Chairman of the Indian Olympic Association Adhoc Committee for Ski & Snowboarding. Speaking about the event, Keshavan stated, “This place can become the Launchpad of the country to nurture the potential of the players provided infrastructure augmentation.” He emphasized the importance of the Khelo India Winter Games in inspiring youth and nurturing future champions, stating, “KIWG ignited the spirit of promising and talented youth, thus ensuring this launchpad will bring us medals in the future.”
Arif Khan, a local icon and participant in the previous Winter Olympics, echoed Keshavan’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for infrastructure upgrades and international collaborations. Khan, who is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics, shared his commitment to winning medals for the country and grooming local talent, stating, “I shall work to groom local talent.”
Nanak Chand Thakur, a 1992 winter Olympian and coach for ITBP, expressed his delight at his players’ success in the Khelo India Winter Games. He emphasized the importance of encouraging participation from across the country and advocated for FIS certification to advance India’s sports legacy, stating, “We need to encourage players from other states too.”
Chuni Lal Thakur, another 1992 Olympian from Himachal Pradesh, highlighted the transformative impact of the Khelo India Winter Games on the sports landscape. He emphasized the role of live coverage in inspiring youngsters and underscored the need for large-scale interventions to host international sporting events, stating, “If we did best to represent our country with limited resources, our youngster can bring medals in the future and make our country proud.”
The collective optimism and vision of these Olympians underscore the growing momentum of the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg. With their guidance and advocacy, coupled with concerted efforts to enhance infrastructure and promote wider participation, India is poised to emerge as a force to be reckoned with in winter sports on the global stage. The Khelo India Winter Games continue to showcase the immense potential and talent in India’s winter sports landscape, setting the stage for future success and international recognition.
