Mumbai to Host 'Khashaba Jadhav Krida Mahakumbha' from August 13, Celebrating Traditional Indian Sports

Mumbai – In a vibrant celebration of India’s rich sporting heritage, Mumbai is set to host the ‘Khashaba Jadhav Paramparik Krida Mahakumbha’, a grand festival of traditional sports, from August 13 to August 22. Organized under the leadership of Skill Development Minister Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, this 10-day event will be held at the Jam Saheb Mukadam Government Industrial Training Institute grounds in Kurla, offering Mumbaikars a rare chance to experience and participate in some of India’s most historic and cultural games.

The festival pays tribute to two stalwarts of Indian history – Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, remembered for her tireless contribution to Indian culture and governance, and Khashaba Jadhav, Maharashtra’s first Olympic medalist, whose name continues to inspire generations of Indian athletes.
 

A Cultural Revival Through Sports

Minister Lodha emphasized the importance of preserving India’s traditional sports, which are fading from public memory due to modern urban lifestyles. “These games are more than just physical contests. They reflect our roots, our values, and our community spirit,” said Shri Lodha. “By bringing back games like Lezim, Lagori, and Viti Dandu, we aim to reconnect the youth with our glorious past.”

The Krida Mahakumbha is not just a sporting event—it is a cultural movement. Alongside the competitions, the event will showcase traditional martial sports from the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, underlining Maharashtra’s legacy of valor and physical fitness.
 

Games to Watch and Play

Participants will compete in a variety of traditional games, including:

• Kabaddi
• Kho-Kho
• Lagori
• Lezim
• Tug of War
• Mallakhamb
• Pawankhind Sprint
• Wrestling
• Arm Wrestling
• Viti Dandu
• Rope Skipping
• Fugdi
• Yoga

All these competitions will be held across both men’s and women’s categories, ensuring inclusive participation.
 

Massive Participation Expected
 

The event is being organized in collaboration with Krida Bharati, a dedicated sports organization that has been promoting indigenous games across the country. According to organizers, registrations have already begun at full pace, with numerous schools, colleges, and ITIs from Mumbai expressing interest in taking part.

“We are witnessing overwhelming enthusiasm,” said a spokesperson from Krida Bharati. “This initiative will create awareness and respect for our own games, especially among the younger generation who are often unaware of our traditional sports heritage.”
 

Previous Success, Bigger Vision

Minister Lodha has previously hosted smaller-scale traditional sports events in Mumbai, which received enthusiastic responses from the public. Building on that success, this year’s Krida Mahakumbha is being organized on a much larger scale with greater community involvement.

“The response we received earlier showed us that people are eager to reconnect with their roots,” the Minister said. “This time, we’re going bigger and bolder.”
 

Open for All
 

The event is open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to either participate or witness the energy and cultural vibrancy of the games. For those who wish to participate, registrations can be made by contacting Krida Bharati at 9867066506 or 9768327745.
 

A Step Towards Health, Culture, and Unity
 

In an era dominated by screen time and sedentary habits, this initiative by the Maharashtra government aims to promote physical activity, community bonding, and cultural pride. By reviving traditional sports, the ‘Khashaba Jadhav Krida Mahakumbha’ seeks to blend nostalgia with public health and community empowerment.

As the event date draws closer, excitement is building among athletes, schools, cultural groups, and ordinary citizens alike. Mumbai is all set to witness not just games, but a cultural celebration of India’s timeless spirit.