Also popular as Rural Olympics, this event takes place annually in Kila Raipur, Punjab, India. Various Punjabi rural sports, including cart races, athletic events, and tug of war, are held during this event.
Held in February every year, many people come to see this event for various reasons, and one such reason is to witness the special breeds of bullocks, camels, dogs, and many other animals.
From teenagers to even elderly people, all come to celebrate this cultural event to witness this amazing blend of festivities. It is a cause of fascination for many who come to experience the Kila Raipur Sports Festival.
Date & Venue of Kila Raipur Sports Festival
The Kila Raipur Sports Festival will be organised from 3rd February to 5th February. The venue of the event is Kila Raipur( Ludhiana) in Punjab.
History of Kila Raipur Sports Festival
Kila Raipur Sports Festival started in 1933 in Punjab. It is said that there was a philanthropist named Inder Singh Grewal who thought about bringing farmers from the surrounding areas for an annual meet to test their corporal endurance. It was this step that gave him the idea for such an event. Thus, the Kila Raipur Sports Festival was born. And now, this sports festival has become an international event after so many years.
Major Attractions of Kila Raipur Sports Festival
It is considered the biggest rural sports event in India. Here, one can witness different types of races, such as bullock cart racing, kabaddi, and even cock-fighting. These are all energetic and fun-filled activities, not to forget Bhangra and Gidda, which are a part of every happy Punjabi occasion.
So, no more puzzling yourself. Just be a part of this amazing National Fair in Kila Raipur in the month of February. It is believed that over 4,000 sportsmen participated in this event. And apart from sports, one can also enjoy various cultural activities and performances.
1. Kabaddi
One of the major attractions for sports lovers, Kabaddi remains the essence of this event. What’s really interesting is that players from different countries come to participate in this event. And owing to its popularity, this sport has also made its place in Asian Games.
2. Akharas
These are the places where local villagers learn to do Kushti, which is a local form of wrestling. Due to its connection with desi mitti, wrestling is an indelible part of this sports festival.
3. Kite Flying
This is yet another interesting part of the Kila Raipur Festival. The adrenaline rush and the thrill which can be observed on the faces of competitors describes it all.
4. Sikh Martial Arts
This is Sikh mock fighting and is one way to keep the old heritage alive in these modern times.
5. Kokla Chapaki
This game is very popular among young children, particularly in rural areas. Typically both boys and girls play this game. They sit in circles, and a child holding the cloth in their hands sings around the circle. He or she has to drop the piece of cloth behind the back of one of their friends and run away. And the child behind whose back the cloth has been dropped has to catch his mate before they can sit at a vacant place.
How to Reach for Kila Raipur Sports Festival
Ludhiana is an amazing city known for its cultural relevance. Here is how you can reach Ludhiana by the following means of transportation.
- Nearest Major City. Ludhiana
- Nearest Airport. Sahnewal Airport Ludhiana
- Nearest Railway Station. Ahmedgarh Railway Station
- Distance from Ludhiana. 20.6 Km
By Air
Ludhiana Airport (LUH), also known as the Sahnewal Airport, is a nearby airport from the village of Kila Raipur, situated at a distance of 20-25 km. This airport serves Ludhiana and its nearby regions. To cover this distance, you can take a cab or other transportation options to reach your destination from the airport.
- Distance from Sahnewal Airport Ludhiana. 21.8 Km
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Reach for Kila Raipur Sports Festival
By Road
Ludhiana has been well connected with other cities through its well-maintained road networks.
- Distance from Ludhiana. 20.6 Km
- Distance from Malerkotla. 29.4 Km
- Distance from Raikot. 30.4 Km
- Distance from Jalandhar. 81.1 Km
- Distance from Faridkot. 121.4 Km
- Distance from Delhi. 375.7 Km via NH44
- Distance from Haryana.326.3 Km via NH703
- Distance from Rajasthan. 587.6 Km via NH52
- Distance from Mumbai. 1717.4 Km via NH 48
By Train
Ludhiana is connected via regular train networks from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Pune, and Pathankot. One of the best options to visit Ludhiana via train would be to deboard at Ludhiana junction. You will need to cover a distance of about 20-25 km from this station to reach your destination.
- Distance from Ahmedgarh Railway Station. 8 Km
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Kila Raipur Sports Festival
Q1. How is Kila Raipur Sports Festival celebrated?
A1. The Kila Raipur sports festival comprises a variety of performances and sports activities. The festival's main events are Kabaddi, Akhara, Kite Flying, Kokla Chapaki, and Martial Arts.
Q2. When is the Kila Raipur Sports Festival celebrated?
A2. The Kila Raipur Sports Festival will be celebrated from the 3rd of February to the 5th of February in Kila Raipur, Ludhiana.
Q3. Which State Kila Raipur Sports Festival is celebrated?
A3. The Kila Raipur Sports Festival is celebrated in the Punjab state of India every year.
Q4. Where is the Kila Raipur Sports Festival celebrated?
A4. The Kila Raipur Sports Festival will be celebrated in Ludhiana, Punjab, in the first week of February.
Q5. Why is the Kila Raipur Sports Festival celebrated?
A5. The Kila Raipur Sports Festival takes solace in celebrating the rural Olympics in the most energetic and vibrant form.