Khel Mahakumbh 2026 Begins in Banuti, Nearly 10,000 Participants Expected: Vikramaditya Singh

Shimla, October 25, 2026: Himachal Pradesh Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh inaugurated Khel Mahakumbh 2026 at Banuti in Shimla Rural constituency on Sunday. The 20-day sporting event is expected to attract around 9,500 to 10,000 participants and will conclude in Sunni on November 15.

The event will feature competitions in kabaddi, volleyball, badminton, cricket and tug-of-war, along with modelling and other activities. Boxing has been introduced for the first time, with introductory bouts offering opportunities to school and college students.

Singh directed organisers, referees and umpires to ensure fair and transparent competitions, stressing that the event aims to provide equal opportunities to participants across age groups, including youth, women and senior citizens.

Highlighting development initiatives, the minister said projects worth approximately ₹600 crore had been undertaken in Shimla Rural over the past four years, while the Public Works and Urban Development departments had carried out development works worth around ₹10,000 crore across Himachal Pradesh during the same period.

He reiterated his commitment to protecting Himachal’s interests, promoting women’s empowerment, expanding sports facilities and creating employment opportunities for young people. He also recalled the contribution of former chief minister Virbhadra Singh to the development of Shimla Rural.

Cash prizes have been announced across various competitions. The cricket winners will receive ₹2 lakh, while the runners-up will get ₹1 lakh. Winners in volleyball, men’s and women’s kabaddi, and tug-of-war will receive ₹50,000 each. Prizes have also been earmarked for badminton, folk dance, modelling and other events.

Several former legislators, Congress leaders, elected representatives, organising committee members, players and local residents attended the inauguration.