Felicitated by Rotary Club Chhoti Kashi and Art of Living Women’s Wing
Munish Sood
MANDI:
Himachal Pradesh’s Team Black Panther delivered a historic performance at the Ninja Sports Martial Art National Championship held in New Delhi, winning a rich haul of medals and bringing national glory to Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh.
The team’s dominance in the national arena has triggered celebrations across the region and inspired hundreds of young athletes.
Senior coach and athlete Ajay Thakur led from the front with a stunning performance, securing four gold medals, setting a new benchmark for excellence and discipline within the team.
Outstanding medal winners include Ajay Thakur (4 gold medals), Lavyansh Thakur (2 gold medals), Gunjan (2 gold medals and 1 bronze medal), Atul Thakur (1 gold and 1 silver medal), Bharat Thakur (1 gold and 1 silver medal), Anjali Thakur (1 gold and 1 silver medal), Aarav Thakur (2 bronze medals) and Aarav (1 silver and 1 bronze medal).
Grand felicitation ceremony in Mandi
Following their return, the champions were formally honoured in Mandi by the Rotary Club of Chhoti Kashi, Mandi, and the Women’s Wing of the Art of Living, Mandi. The ceremony turned into a proud community celebration where the athletes were felicitated with traditional shawls, mementoes and heartfelt applause.
Speakers at the event hailed the players as role models for Himachal’s youth and lauded their discipline, courage and dedication. The event also highlighted the importance of grassroots sports and community support in nurturing future national champions.
Himachal Pradesh Ninja Sports Martial Art Secretary Netra Thakur expressed sincere thanks to all individuals and institutions that supported the team, including Dr Anupama Singh (social worker and former Vice-Chancellor), Rotary Club Chhoti Kashi Mandi, Rajesh Thakur (Sundernagar), social worker Aman Sood, and the Art of Living Women’s Wing, Mandi.
Special recognition was given to coach Ajay Thakur, whose tireless efforts and expert guidance were credited for this landmark achievement. Team Black Panther’s victory is being described as a golden moment for Mandi and Himachal Pradesh, strengthening the state’s growing presence in national-level sports.
