Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore, 21 September 2025 – In the presence of the iconic 112‑foot Adiyogi, thousands gathered for the final day of Isha Gramotsavam, Bharat’s largest rural sports festival.
From dusty courts and community grounds in villages across six states and one Union Territory, the games built momentum and spirit until they arrived on Coimbatore’s grand stage – bringing together 63,220 players, including more than 12,000 women, in 5,472 teams from more than 35,000 villages – for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture, and community.
“This is not just a sports festival. This is a celebration of the dream of crores of citizens living in Bharat’s villages,” declared Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Honorable Union Minister of Labor & Employment, and Youth Affairs & Sports, to a roaring crowd.
His words framed the essence of Gramotsavam – a stage where farmers, fishermen, homemakers, and daily‑wage workers transform into champions, celebrated far beyond their hometowns.
Under the bright lights, the women’s throwball finals saw Badagannur from Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district emerge victorious against Devarayapuram from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, with a scoreline of 12–9.
For most women on the court, it was their first time playing before thousands.
Olympic badminton medalist Saina Nehwal smiled in awe: “I was amazed to see our women. Wow!”
The winners lifted their trophy and ₹5 lakh prize money, as the runners‑up took home ₹3 lakh.
With relentless smashes and solid teamwork, Uttamasolapuram powered to a 19–10 victory. The champions received ₹5 lakh, while the runners‑up took home ₹3 lakh.
Isha Gramotsavam is unique – open only to amateur rural players, it is designed to pull everyday people away from their daily grind and offer them the unifying joy of sport.
In his address, Minister Mandaviya shared: “Friends, this is not just a sports festival. This is a celebration of the dream of crores of citizens living in Bharat’s villages. It is a celebration of the strength, resolve, and unity of rural Bharat. When we look at this grand event, we realize that behind this lies not just management and efforts, but a profound vision. And that vision has been given to you by the Sadhguruji.”
“Sadhguruji is a master of everything – a master of meditation, a master of diet – and today, I am even declaring him the brand ambassador of sports.” Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal’s declaration came as she watched courtside, comparing the tournament’s exhilaration to her own career on the world stage. “We have played so many international matches, so many national matches,” she said, taking in the roar of the crowd. “I can’t believe it – the energy!” The scene rivaled a cricket stadium, with thousands cheering every spike, every save, and every moment of brilliance from players who had never imagined competing on such a grand stage.
Chess Grandmaster Vaishali Rameshbabu, reflecting on the day’s celebrations, shared her experience: “This is the first time I have seen, whether it is volleyball or throwball, matches being played so intensely... I feel great positive energy, and I am sure it is the same for everyone. I saw many women participating, and I could connect with them. Everyone gave their hearts and played; they put their hearts and souls into the game. Let’s not only celebrate the winners but also celebrate the spirit that brought us all together here.”
A special para‑volleyball match proved a highlight of the day, showcasing sheer determination.
Tokyo 2020 Paralympic silver medalist in table tennis, Bhavina Patel, addressed the crowd in Hindi, earning warm applause – her presence a reminder that limitations lie only in the mind.
Beyond the courts, the grounds came alive with color and tradition.
Two thousand women took to the plaza to perform Tamil Nadu’s graceful folk dance, Valli Kummi, their synchronized movements a celebration of rural heritage.
The deep rhythms of Kerala’s traditional percussion performances, Panchari and Chenda Melam, reverberated through the air, drawing crowds toward the performers.
From Telangana, the lively Gussadi dance unfolded, narrating folk tales through swift steps and expressive gestures.
Karnataka’s fierce Puli Vesham dancers, painted in striking tiger stripes, prowled and leapt across the stage, bringing the excitement of timeless folklore to life.
Visitors explored games, competitions, and more stalls offering traditional South Indian delicacies – from steaming pongal to crisp dosas, and classic sweets.
“It is essentially to reignite, to rekindle a different level of life in rural India,” Sadhguru told the gathering.
His vision rang clear: “A spirited human being cannot be stopped. Sport is that aspect which ignites that spirit in a massive way. We want to bring this playfulness into every home, every village, every person’s life. Are you game for life?”
“Yes!” thundered the crowd. “That’s it. Let’s make it happen,” Sadhguru urged.
Over the years, Gramotsavam has brought together countless rural players, fostering not just competition but camaraderie, pride, and a shared cultural spirit.
Building on this momentum, Gramotsavam is on track to reach all 28 states by 2028 – carrying its heartbeat deeper into Bharat’s villages, along with the cheers, colors, and courage that lit up this unforgettable finale.
Participants and viewers shared their joy: “Such an incredible and unique event on the planet,” said one. “Being there in person at Isha Gramotsavam had a whole different vibe – truly enjoyed it,” shared another. “What an exuberant way to celebrate sports, especially for rural India. Thank you, Sadhguru,” expressed a grateful participant.
After the award ceremony ended, the grounds filled with players, volunteers, and supporters sharing highlights and laughter. The drums had stopped, but you could still feel the excitement in the air. For many who made the journey to Coimbatore, Gramotsavam proved to be more than competition – it was rural India celebrating itself.
