SAG is a landmark event for Northeast: Sonowal

Union Sports minister at official curtain raiser of South Asian Games 2016 in Shillong

A CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG, Feb 2: Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma today said that hosting of the 12th South Asian Games is a privilege for the passiote sports lovers of the region.

“It is not only a privilege for the people of the region but also demonstrate one’s competence by playing the best host,” Dr Sangma said.

The Chief Minister also said that hosting of the games in the two states is the culmition of collective and committed efforts put in by all stakeholders.

He also said that the intertiol event will demonstrate the competence of the state of being capable hosts which is unique to the region. While providing opportunity to showcase the vibrant and diverse culture of Meghalaya, the South Asian Games will be a platform to exhibit the passion of the state as sports lovers.

Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs Sarbanda Sonowal said that the South Asian Games is a landmark event in the North East. Sonowal informed that the event while promoting peace, prosperity and progress in the state, is the first event to provide gender sensitive spirit giving equal opportunity to men and women in all the 23 sports disciplines.

Meanwhile, Dr Sangma along with Sonowal launched the official games jingle at a curtain raiser for the 12th South Asian Games on Tuesday evening.

The event also saw the launch of the ‘Special Cover’ and ‘My Stamp’ by India Post.

Moreover, a musical theatre showcasing the beauty and culture of Meghalaya and the North East will enthrall the crowd during the launching of the 12th South Asian Games 2016 in Shillong on February 6. The event which will kick off at the JN Stadium at 5 pm will be hosted by the well-known Siddharth Basu.

The musical extravaganza will see as many as 800 people take part in the performances at a time even as contingents of the eight participating tions will march on the pitch in a ceremony which will introduce the athletes and officials of the tions to the crowd.

The event aims to showcase the scenic beauty and culture of Meghalaya to the world. Moreover, dancers from Meghalaya and other parts of North East will also perform on the occasion. The Shillong Chamber Choir, Venisia Warshong and Meiyang Chang will be some added attraction to the event.  

Glimpses of the eight disciplines to be held in Shillong will also be seen during the musical extravaganza. The event will conclude with fireworks and releasing of lanterns. The curtain raiser will also witnessed the launch of the official Games jingle, “Ei Prithibi Ek Krirangan” (The world is a playground) by the legendary Bhupen Hazarika and Special Cover and My Stamp by India Post, along with musical performances.