Gully Cricket 2025 Culminates in Grand Prize Distribution Ceremony at Punjab Raj Bhawan
Governor Gulab Chand Kataria Felicitates Young Champions, Applauds Youth-Led Movement Against Drugs
576 Teams, 6912 Players: Gully Cricket 2025 Sets a New Benchmark in Grassroots Sports Engagement.
The Voice of Canada-The Voice of Chandigarh News
In a vibrant and inspiring ceremony held at the Punjab Raj Bhawan, the Prize Distribution Ceremony of the “Gully Cricket 2025” Tournament marked the successful culmination of one of the largest grassroots sports events organized in the region. The tournament, a joint initiative of the UT Cricket Association (UTCA) and Chandigarh Police, was conceptualized under the theme “Balla Ghumao, Nasha Bhagao” (Swing the Bat, Drive Away Drugs) with the aim of promoting sports and eradicating substance abuse among the youth.
The event was graced by the Punjab Governor and Administrator UT Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria who had inaugurated the tournament on April 19, 2025, and returned to personally felicitate the winners and outstanding players in a heartfelt ceremony.
During his address, the Governor lauded the remarkable efforts of the UTCA and Chandigarh Police, stating, “This tournament is not just about cricket—it is about discipline, teamwork, and self-belief. It symbolizes how sports can become a powerful tool for social transformation and help build a healthier, more responsible, and drug-free generation.”
He praised the tournament’s inclusive approach, highlighting its ability to bring together young participants from diverse backgrounds and instill in them values of equality and mutual respect.
The Administrator praised the unique collaboration between the Police and sports authorities, stating, “This tournament demonstrates how law enforcement can go beyond its traditional role to create safe and positive environments for young citizens. When a child picks up a bat instead of intoxicants, that is a victory for the entire society.”
Team No. 187 emerged as the champion in the boys’ category, while Team No. 1 clinched the title in the girls’ category. Individual recognitions included Mohd Shahbaz as Best Batter (Boys), Suraj Kumar as Best Bowler (Boys), Prabjot Kaur as Best Batter (Girls), and Ayana as Best Bowler (Girls).
In a generous gesture, the Governor announced a cash prize of ₹10,000 for each outstanding player of the tournament.
Kataria urged educational institutions, Resident Welfare Associations, and community leaders to replicate such efforts and ensure every street becomes a pitch and every youth a champion in the fight against drugs.
In a strong message on promoting health and well-being, shoe kits were presented to all semifinalist teams, while medical kits were distributed to every participating boy, and hygiene kits to all participating girls, reinforcing the tournament’s holistic approach toward youth empowerment.
The Gully Cricket 2025 tournament witnessed a record-breaking participation of 576 teams and 6,912 players, transforming community grounds and playgrounds into vibrant centers of sporting excellence and youthful energy.
UTCA President Sanjay Tandon expressed pride in the overwhelming response, sharing how the event has grown from 202 teams in its inaugural edition to nearly triple the number in this edition. He described it as a testament to the initiative’s resonance among the youth.
SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, in her remarks, thanked all participants, organizers, and dignitaries, emphasizing how the collective efforts had made the tournament not just a sporting event but a movement for social good.
Dignitaries Present during the event were V.P. Singh Principal Secretary to the Governor,Prerna Puri Secretary Sports, Sorabh Arora, Director Sports Geetanjali Khandelwal, SSP, City, Devinder Sharma, Secretary, UTCA, Ravinder Singh Billa, Chairman, UTCA, CA Alok Krishan, Treasurer, UTCA and other officials of Chandigarh Administration.
