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Assam marked its annual State Sports Day with grand celebrations on September 3, 2025, honouring the birth anniversary of Bhogeswar Baruah, the state’s first Arjuna Awardee and a towering figure in Indian athletics. The day serves as a tribute to Baruah’s remarkable contributions as a trailblazing athlete and coach, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of sports enthusiasts in Assam and beyond. This year’s festivities highlighted Assam’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and preserving its rich athletic heritage.
Key Highlights Of The State Sports Day Celebration
The day commemorates Bhogeswar Baruah’s birthday, celebrated annually as Abhiruchi Sports Day throughout Assam.
Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma paid homage to Baruah on social media, lauding his dedication and inspiring journey as a sports icon.
The Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati was officially renamed the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, cementing his legacy within the state’s sports infrastructure.
The 42nd Abhiruchi Krira Diwas celebrations included marathons, inter-school sports meets, dance and physical training competitions, and state-level sports quizzes.
Sports Minister Nandita Gorlosa emphasized the government’s focus on grassroots development and investment in sports infrastructure.
A grand felicitation ceremony was held to honour 38 sportspersons from Assam who represented India in various disciplines over the previous year.
Special awards such as the RG Baruah Award for Eminent Sports Organizer and the Chidananda Das Award for Coaching were conferred, recognizing excellence in sports administration and mentorship.
Bhogeswar Baruah: An Iconic Sporting Journey
Born in 1940 in Sivasagar to a farmer’s family, Bhogeswar Baruah’s athletic talent gained national prominence when he clinched the gold medal in the 800 meters at the 1966 Asian Games in Bangkok. He also secured a silver medal in the 4×400 meters relay at the 1970 Asian Games. His Arjuna Award in 1966 made him the first recipient from Assam, placing the state on India’s sporting map.
Beyond competitive success, Baruah dedicated his life to coaching and mentoring budding athletes, embedding discipline, perseverance, and a winning spirit. His enduring influence is reflected in Assam’s sporting culture and infrastructure development.
Infrastructure And Sporting Ecosystem Boost
Renaming Guwahati’s Sarusajai Stadium in Bhogeswar Baruah’s honour signals Assam’s commitment to celebrating sporting heroes while fostering environments conducive to athletic excellence. The government’s parallel initiatives include establishing the first state sports school, a sports university in Chabua, and a sports college in Kokrajhar—creating a comprehensive pathway for nurturing talent.
These institutes focus on combining academic education with professional sports training in disciplines like athletics, boxing, football, weightlifting, archery, and taekwondo, providing holistic development opportunities.
Community Engagement And Legacy Preservation
Abhiruchi Sports Day transcends mere celebration; it invigorates community involvement across Assam. School and college students actively participate in sporting events, rekindling interest and enthusiasm for physical fitness. Cultural elements such as dance competitions enrich the festivities, weaving sports into the socio-cultural fabric.
Additionally, awards recognizing coaches, organizers, and emerging sportspersons encourage continued excellence and dedication at all levels of sport.
Conclusion
Assam’s observance of State Sports Day on Bhogeswar Baruah’s birth anniversary underscores the profound impact of a sporting legend whose achievements transcend medals to inspire generations. The state’s dedication to building sports infrastructure, nurturing talent, and celebrating excellence situates Assam as a beacon of sporting ambition and pride in India. Bhogeswar Baruah’s legacy, immortalized through awards and renamed stadiums, continues to motivate the youth, fostering a vibrant future for sports in the region.
Sources: Sentinel Assam, Assam Tribune, The Assam Tribune, India Today NE, PIB India, Social News, Hindustan Times
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