The second edition of Khasdar Krida Mahotsav (KKM2) got off to a colourful start before a near capacity crowd at Yeshwant Stadium on Saturday evening. Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar inaugurated the 15-day sports carnival in presence of Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis and Chief promoter of the event, Union minister for transport, shipping Nitin Gadkari and hosts of dignitaries.
Tendulkar who arrived by a chartered flight earlier in the evening was dressed in blue attire lit the Mahotsav (Member of Parliament Sports Carnival), light which was brought to the stadium in a ceremony by a relay team of sportspersons..An impressive march past was taken out by the participating teams and sportsmen and women.
Tendulkar also inaugurated the green bus which was parked inside the stadium. At the outset, pupils from Centre Point School presented Ganesh Vandana, which was followed by demonstration of Indian ancient self defence exercises like dand patta and lathi (sticks). This was followed by traditional malkhamb.
Tendulkar was presented a memento by chief organiser Sandeep Joshi.
Also present were Maharashtra minister for energy Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who is also the guardian minister of the district, city mayor Nanda Jichkar, MP Vikas Mahatme, former MPs Ajay Sancheti and Datta Meghe, MLAs Sudhkar Deshmukh, Sudhakar Kohle, Dr Milind Mane and others.
Bonsala Military School band was in attendance. A musical event was also organised on the occasion.
