RAJASTHAN MINISTER for Youth Affairs and Sports, Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, on Sunday announced the opening of the 5th Khelo India University Games (KIUG) Rajasthan 2025, to be held at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
With Rajasthan hosting the country’s largest university-level multi-sport event for the first time, Col. Rathore outlined the state’s preparations, the scale of participation, and key details of the opening ceremony scheduled for Monday, 24 November.
Expressing confidence in the state’s readiness, Col. Rathore said, “Rajasthan is fully prepared to welcome the nation’s finest young athletes. These Games celebrate our heritage, our sporting spirit and our commitment to nurturing future champions. Under the aegis of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we are proud to host athletes from across India and look forward to delivering an inspiring, memorable edition of the Khelo India University Games which will be remembered for its hospitality and warmth. We are also excited and grateful for the support that Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma has provided us for organizing the Games. His guidance and vision is set to pave the way for the next generation of athletes emerging from the state.”
He also revealed that the opening ceremony will feature a culturally rich program showcasing Rajasthan’s identity as a land of courage, colour, and celebration. Indian composer and singer Siddharth Mahadevan will headline the evening with high-energy performances to elevate the atmosphere.
The event will commence with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by the Rajasthan Police Band, followed by an elegant opening act led by Arunita Kanjilal and a group of dancers invoking blessings from Lord Ganesha. Folk artists from across Rajasthan, curated by Rajnigandha Shekhawat, will present a vibrant musical showcase celebrating the “Land of Colours.”
Artists from across India will highlight the nation’s martial traditions in a segment symbolising the “Land of Bravery.” In a tribute to the spirit of sportsmanship, participating athletes will then parade through the venue on a special caravan, accompanied by the official mascots: Khamma and Ghani. Col. Rathore also announced that a spectacular aerial display will be part of the proceedings.
The 2025 edition of KIUG will bring together around 5,000 athletes from universities across the country. Competitions will be held in 24 sports, including Kho-Kho as a demonstration event. Events will take place across seven cities: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Ajmer, Bharatpur and Bikaner; making it one of the largest multi-city sporting events ever hosted in the state.
