Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan announced that the highly anticipated 6th Edition of the Punjab Arena Polo Challenge Cup will take place during the Holla Mohalla celebrations at Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The event will bring together top-tier players and polo enthusiasts from across India for an exhilarating showcase of equestrian skill, tradition, and horsemanship.
To mark the occasion, Speaker Sandhwan also unveiled the official Anandpur Sahib Polo T-shirt for the tournament.
Tournament Details & Significance
Addressing a press conference, Speaker Sandhwan shared that the tournament will be held on March 14, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Charan Ganga Stadium, Sri Anandpur Sahib.
This stadium, known for its world-class facilities, serves as a significant venue for the historic Holla Mohalla festival.
The festival, first introduced in 1701 by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, is renowned for displaying the martial arts skills of the Nihang Singh Jathebandis, also known as "Guru Ki Ladli Fauj."
Sandhwan highlighted that the event will feature elite polo teams competing in high-stakes matches, offering an action-packed experience for participants and spectators.
It will also provide an opportunity to showcase Punjab’s rich equestrian tradition and its growing prominence in the polo community.
The tournament will be attended by notable figures from the world of sports, industry leaders, sponsors, and dignitaries. In addition to thrilling polo matches, spectators will also witness martial arts demonstrations, cultural performances, and entertainment, making it a complete festival of sports and celebrations.
Key Highlights of the Tournament
Elite polo teams from across India will compete in intense matches.
Equestrian performances and entertainment for all ages, including special appearances by renowned polo players and sports personalities.
A family-friendly atmosphere with traditional music, cultural activities, and more.
Condemnation of Federal Interference & Language Marginalization
During the press conference, Sandhwan also condemned the removal of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar’s photographs from the Delhi Chief Minister’s Office, calling it an unfortunate and highly condemnable act.
He criticized the BJP-led government for its attempts to undermine India's federal structure through divisive policies.
Furthermore, he strongly opposed the CBSE's decision to exclude Punjabi in the new Class 10 exam pattern, calling it an anti-Punjabi and anti-Punjab move.
He emphasized that Punjabi is not just a language but the soul of Punjab and declared that the Punjab government will not tolerate any attempt to distance children from their mother tongue.
He urged the Central Government to amend its rules immediately and restore the rightful status of Punjabi.
A Celebration of Polo & Punjab’s Heritage
Speaking at the event, Sodhi Vikram Singh, Managing Trustee of the Anandpur Sahib Heritage Foundation, expressed excitement about hosting this prestigious polo tournament in Punjab.
He highlighted that this event will not only celebrate the thrilling sport of polo but also bring attention to Sri Anandpur Sahib’s historical and spiritual significance as the birthplace of the Khalsa Panth and the home of Holla Mohalla.
The tournament is being organized by Sodhi Vikram Singh, an international polo player and captain of the Delhi Polo & Riding Club, a leading organization promoting polo and equestrian sports in India.
The club aims to nurture new talent and foster the growth of polo across the country.
Polo: A Legacy Sport with Deep Indian Roots
Describing polo as the “Sport of Kings”, Vikram Singh emphasized that it is one of the oldest and most prestigious team sports globally, requiring agility, strategy, and strength. He noted that modern polo originated in India, and Punjab has been a key region in its development and popularity.
For media inquiries, Manu Singh can be contacted at 9877677117 or via email at manu.10cricket@gmail.com.
