In 2025, the much awaited Khelo India Water Sports Festival will return, turning India's peaceful backwaters and scenic coastline into an exhilarating arena of competition, adrenaline, and patriotism. This festival celebrates India's enormous aquatic potential and encourages its young people to enjoy the waves, making it more than just a sporting event.
Put this on your calendars whether you're a sports fan, adventurer, or just searching for something different. Everything you need to know about the Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 is included in this comprehensive guide.
The Khelo India Water Sports Festival:
This festival was started as a major project under the Government of India's flagship Khelo India program with the goal of advancing water sports as a popular pastime in the nation. In addition to promoting public involvement and tourism, it offers a nationwide stage for aspiring and seasoned athletes to display their skills in a range of water sports.
Winning gold isn't the only goal; it's also about promoting a healthy lifestyle, finding fresh talent, and elevating India in the world of water sports.
Event Overview
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What: The first-ever Khelo India Water Sports Festival, a national-level open-age competition featuring Olympic events in rowing, canoeing, and kayaking—along with demonstration sports like water skiing, shikara boat sprint, and dragon boat races.
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When: Held from August 21 to 23, 2025.
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Where: The scenic Dal Lake, Srinagar, beautifully showcasing its waters as a sporting arena.
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Who: About 400 athletes from 36 states and Union Territories competed.
Sports to Watch
The festival is a vibrant spectacle of numerous water disciplines. Expect to see fierce competition in:
Kayaking: Watch athletes navigate the waters with power and precision in sprint and slalom events.
Canoeing: A test of strength and stamina as competitors paddle their way to the finish line.
Rowing: A synchronized display of teamwork and technique in both single and crew boat events.
Sailing: A beautiful and strategic sport where sailors harness the wind to glide across the water.
Paddleboarding: A test of core strength and balance, both in racing and SUP yoga demonstrations.
Beach Sports: The energy extends to the sand with popular events like Beach Football and Beach Kabaddi.
Yachting & Wind-Surfing: Showcasing advanced skills and adding a glamorous touch to the festival.
Key Highlights & Achievements
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24 gold medals were awarded across Olympic-sanctioned events (14 in kayaking/canoeing and 10 in rowing).
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Madhya Pradesh dominated with a stellar medal tally, emerging as the champion.
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Outstanding performances from Odisha and Kerala, especially by athletes from SAI training centers.
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Rasmita Sahoo from Odisha secured gold in the women’s 200m canoe singles.
Cultural & Sporting Impact
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The festival's mascot, the Himalayan Kingfisher, symbolizes energy, adventure, and strong ties with Kashmir’s natural beauty.
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The logo featured a Shikara gliding on Dal Lake, set against snow-capped peaks and pine trees—merging landscape, tradition, and athleticism.
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The opening ceremony showcased a drone light show, folk dances, and cultural performances that wove Jal-Gulabi culture into sport.
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As highlighted by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, this three-day festival replaced the previously common "hartal (strike) calendar" with a Khelo India sports calendar—promoting normalcy, youth engagement, and tourism.
Summary Snapshot
Category Details Venue & Dates Dal Lake, Srinagar Competitions Rowing, Kayaking, Canoeing (24 medal events); Demonstration: Water skiing, Shikara Sprint, Dragon Boat Participation ~400 athletes, 36 States & UTs Top Performers Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala; standout athlete: Rasmita Sahoo Cultural Highlights Mascot (Kingfisher), Logo (Shikara & mountains), Opening ceremony, Local celebration Stay Updated:
Official Website: https://kheloindia.gov.in/
Follow on Social Media: Search for
#KheloIndiaand#KIWSF2025on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest news and announcements.
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