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Kabaddi is a game of the soil. Kabaddi Runs in everyone’s blood: Vicky Kaushal
Mumbai: The Pro Kabaddi League is redefining the fusion of entertainment and sports with an unparalleled experience for fans, by bringing together the top entertainment celebs with the zenith of kabaddi excellence. A galaxy of stars, including Vicky Kaushal, Tara Sutaria, Nani, and Shiva Rajkumar, have graced various promos and social media posts, sparking impassioned support from fans for their favourite teams and embodying the true essence of the PKL. The star-studded lineup continues with the much-awaited stadium visits from Manoj Bajpayee in Ahmedabad on 7 December 2023, and Sudeep Kichcha in Bangalore on 8 December 2023, infusing an extra layer of stardom into the already intense on-court action as the tournament progresses.
In a promo released by Star Sports, the dynamic duo of Vicky Kaushal and Tara Sutaria come together to share their enthusiasm for the passion and excitement that only the Pro Kabaddi League can deliver. Tara Sutaria draws parallels between the game of kabaddi and life said “When difficulties are in front of you, don’t be scared, fight your fears! No matter who is in front of you, don’t fear, that’s the spirit of Kabaddi!.” Meanwhile, Vicky Kaushal expresses his affection for the homegrown sport of kabaddi and passionately cheers for his favourite heroes, Telugu Titans’ captain Pawan Sehrawat and UP Yoddhas’ captain Pardeep Narwal. He said “They are the heroes of Kabaddi. And they alone can take on seven players. Passion that doesn’t let them give up till the last second. They keep fighting till the last gasp. And Kabaddi is India’s game, India’s game of the soil. Kabaddi runs in everyone’s blood.”
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
