Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar visited Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district to endorse a grassroots sports initiative, aiming to transform the region, previously impacted by Maoist violence, into a vibrant sports center. Tendulkar expressed delight at the progress of playground development through the Maidan Cup program.
Upon arrival at Jagdalpur airport, Tendulkar proceeded to Chhindwar village, where he engaged in an event associated with the Maidan Cup project, which encourages sports participation among local youth. He shared with journalists at Jagdalpur airport, “I am very pleased with the establishment of approximately 50 school playgrounds through the Maidan Cup initiative.”
Supported by the Mann Deshi Foundation, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation, and local authorities, the initiative has already made a notable impact. The ongoing Maidan Cup competition in Dantewada is benefiting over 5,000 children by providing them with organized sports opportunities in a region previously affected by unrest.
Tendulkar remarked, “It’s a fantastic feeling because our foundation and the Mann Deshi team are doing commendable work here. I might join the children in the sports activities, which include kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, and volleyball.”
The Maidan Cup program, launched in 2025, not only focuses on constructing sports infrastructure but also aims to redefine the region’s image. The initial phase concentrated on establishing 50 playgrounds in government schools, incorporating various sports facilities like running tracks, shot put, javelin throw, and wall climbing, fostering a diverse sports culture for young participants.
Tendulkar’s involvement is deemed essential for inspiring children and fostering community engagement. Several playgrounds, such as the one in Chhindwar, have been completed, with boundary walls adorned with murals created by local children, instilling a sense of ownership and pride in the initiative.
This visit comes after Chhattisgarh was declared free from Left-Wing Extremism as of March 31 this year, symbolizing a shift towards progress and opportunities, with sports emerging as a potent catalyst for transformation.
