Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
Despite heavy rainfall, the much-anticipated Baba Lakhdata Football Tournament began on Friday evening at the Government Senior Secondary School grounds in Kakira, Chamba. Organized by the Bakloh Football Association, the tournament was inaugurated at 5 PM by the school’s Principal, Anup Sharma, who attended as the chief guest.
The organizers welcomed Sharma with a ceremonial bouquet and a memento before he formally declared the tournament open. In his address, Sharma emphasized the importance of sports in shaping discipline, teamwork, and leadership among youth.
“Sports are not just about winning or losing,” he said. “They teach us perseverance, honesty, and respect for fair play. Every match is a lesson, and true players are those who give their best with sincerity and discipline.”
Tournament Details
The Baba Lakhdata Football Tournament will run from July 23 to July 25, featuring nine teams from Chamba, Kangra, and Pathankot districts. The competition promises intense matches as regional teams battle for the prestigious title.
- Winner’s Prize: Trophy + ₹25,000 cash
- Runner-up Prize: Trophy + ₹15,000 cash
According to Gaurav Thapa alias Parul, Secretary of the Chilama Lakhdata Football Association, the tournament has a rich legacy dating back 35 years. It was first initiated by Shivu Bhai of 2/4 Bazaar in honor of Baba Lakhdata at the Chilama ground. However, due to ongoing construction work at the football ground this year, the matches are being held at Kakira School instead.
Thapa highlighted the broader mission behind the event: “Our aim is not only to promote football but also to inspire youth towards sports and steer society away from drug addiction. This tournament is a celebration of healthy living and community spirit.”
Opening Match
The first day witnessed an exciting clash between Bakloh and Sulayali. The match remained tense and competitive, eventually being decided in a penalty shootout. Sulayali edged past Bakloh with a narrow 1–0 victory, setting the tone for the rest of the tournament.
Spectators braved the rain to cheer for their teams, creating a lively atmosphere despite the challenging weather. The enthusiasm of the crowd reflected the deep-rooted passion for football in the region.
Community and Cultural Significance
The Baba Lakhdata Football Tournament is more than just a sporting event; it is a cultural tradition that binds communities together. Over the years, it has become a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and for local residents to celebrate unity and sportsmanship.
The association’s decision to continue the tournament despite logistical challenges demonstrates its commitment to preserving this legacy. By relocating the matches to Kakira School, organizers ensured that the tradition remained uninterrupted, while also providing a safe venue for players and spectators.
Looking Ahead
With two more days of matches scheduled, excitement is building as teams prepare to face off for the coveted trophy and cash prizes. The competition is expected to intensify, with strong contenders from Kangra and Pathankot adding to the challenge.
Chief Guest Anup Sharma concluded his remarks with a message of encouragement: “Play with passion, respect the spirit of the game, and remember that every effort on the field contributes to your growth. Winning is important, but learning from defeat is equally valuable.”
Conclusion
The opening day of the Baba Lakhdata Football Tournament in Bakloh was marked by resilience, tradition, and sporting spirit. Despite heavy rains and venue changes, the event successfully brought together players, organizers, and the community in celebration of football. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the teams vying for victory, but the true triumph lies in the values of discipline, teamwork, and unity that the event continues to promote.
