Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 12: Chandigarh University (CU) celebrated a landmark achievement as its athletes returned victorious from the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025, retaining the overall championship for the second consecutive year-an unprecedented feat since the inception of KIUG in 2020. The triumphant contingent received a grand welcome at Sector 42 Stadium, Chandigarh, where students, faculty and officials greeted them with fireworks, drumbeats and patriotic songs.
The reception was led by Deepinder Singh Sandhu, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University; Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to Chancellor; Brig (Dr) Gagan Deep Singh Baath, Executive Director (Administration) and Deepak Kumar Singh, Deputy Director of Sports, along with coaches, the sports department and university officials.
Twenty medal winners attended the celebration. CU’s gold medallists included Shivani Yadav (Weightlifting), Mahaveer, Sitaram, Parhalad Kumar and S Sakshat Patra (Cycling), Rajni and Sweety (Wrestling), Vishal and Harpreet Singh Maan (Archery), Priya and Ankita Chandel (Kabaddi) and Rahul (Athletics). Silver medallists Kumbheswar Mallik (Weightlifting) and Mukul (Cycling) were honoured, along with bronze medallists Kaashvi Gupta (Table Tennis), Sukrant (Shooting), Himanshi Singh (Cycling), Chutki (Volleyball), Priya (Volleyball) and Gaurav (Fencing).
CU shattered its previous record by winning 42 gold medals, emerging dominant in Canoeing, Kayaking, Cycling, Athletics and Swimming. Harsh Saroha won four gold medals in swimming, defeating Olympian Srihari Nataraj. In Canoeing and Kayaking, Pooja, Achal Kacharu Shahare and Konsam Yaipathombi Devi secured six gold medals each.
Deepinder Singh Sandhu said, “It is a proud moment that CU has become the first university to win KIUG back-to-back.” Prof (Dr) RS Bawa stated, “Excellence at CU extends beyond academics to nurturing national and international athletes.” Brig (Dr) Baath noted, “Our athletes set new KIUG records in Hammer Throw, Race Walk and Javelin.” Deepak Kumar Singh added, “Our medal tally proves CU’s strong sporting culture.” The event concluded with renewed commitment to elevate India’s standing in global sports.
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