Orchids The International School is proud to announce the launch of Khel Mahotsav 2024, a flagship annual sporting event under the FIT India initiative. Running from September to December 2024, this nationwide celebration of athletic excellence and sportsmanship conducted across 80+ schools in nine cities, uniting students in a spirited competition that champions the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Khel Mahotsav Nationals commenced on December 16th with Chess as the opening sport and exclusive masterclass, setting the stage for a multi-city celebration of talent and teamwork.
Khel Mahotsav Nationals will feature a diverse lineup of sports, including Football, Basketball, Box-Cricket, Chess, Skating, Swimming, and Taekwondo. With a mix of individual and team sports, the initiative aims to foster holistic development in children by cultivating critical life skills such as leadership, strategic thinking, and physical fitness. Beyond competition, the sporting event provides students a chance to experience the transformative power of sports.
Piyush Ranjan Rai, National Sports Head, Orchids The International School said, “The Indian sports industry has seen phenomenal growth in recent years, emerging as a vital contributor to the nation’s economy and culture. Grassroots initiatives like Khelo India and the FIT India Movement have significantly boosted youth participation, reinforcing the importance of sports as an integral part of holistic education and national fitness. After over three decades, India has once again produced a world-class chess champion. Gukesh D’s extraordinary achievement has not only brought immense pride to the nation but also elevated India’s stature as a global chess powerhouse.
Our Khel Mahotsav is more than just an annual sporting event—it captures the essence of the FIT India initiative by motivating students to adopt an active and disciplined lifestyle. At Orchids, we deeply believe in the transformative power of sports, and Khel Mahotsav reflects our commitment to nurturing confident, well-rounded individuals through holistic development.”
Sharing more details on the Chess masterclass, Vikash Kumar, National Chess Head, Orchids The International School said, “Chess has become an integral part of modern education, especially in schools, where it is transforming how students approach challenges. It’s not just a game—it’s a mental gymnasium that fosters critical thinking, emotional resilience, and the ability to anticipate outcomes, much like real-life decision-making. Starting Khel Mahotsav Nationals with Chess is symbolic of its growing prominence. This timeless sport teaches students to strategize under pressure, balance patience with boldness, and view setbacks as opportunities to learn. Through Khel Mahotsav, we are not just celebrating talent but empowering young minds to apply these skills in academics, sports, and life, preparing them to lead with confidence and foresight.
On this note, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Gukesh D for becoming the youngest-ever world champion. His unwavering determination and remarkable achievement have carved a place for him in chess history and ignited inspiration in countless young minds to dream boldly and strive for excellence.”
Key Highlights of the Event:
Masterclasses by Sports Icons: Students will gain insights from legends like Bhaichung Bhutia (Football), Mary Kom (Boxing), Anoli Shah (Skating), and others.
Wide Age Participation: Competition includes categories for Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16 across various sport disciplines.
Comprehensive Format: Knockout rounds leading to finals, ensuring thrilling competition and engagement.
Over the following weeks, students will participate in Skating at Seawoods campus, Football at Yelahanka campus, Taekwondo at BTM Layout campus, Swimming at Hennur campus, and Basketball at Jakkur campus. Each sport will include both masterclasses conducted by Top Industry Sports Icons and intense national-level competitions.
