Timeline India

Category: Sports

  • Vaishali Rameshbabu Makes Chess History: Back-to-Back Champion at FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2025

    Samarkand, Uzbekistan, September 16, 2025 – Indian Grandmaster R. Vaishali Rameshbabu has cemented her legacy by winning the FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2025, becoming the first player—male or female—to claim the prestigious title consecutively. Securing 8 out of 11 points, Vaishali clinched victory with a hard-fought draw against former Women’s World Champion GM Tan Zhongyi of China in the final round, edging out Russia’s GM Kateryna Lagno on tiebreaks. The triumph earns her a spot in the 2026 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, positioning her as a frontrunner to challenge for the world title.

    The 11-round Swiss-system tournament, held from September 5 to 15 in Samarkand, featured 103 of the world’s top female chess players vying for supremacy and qualification. As the defending champion from the 2023 Riga edition, Vaishali faced intense pressure but started strongly with three consecutive wins. A mid-tournament stumble, including a Round 8 loss to Kazakhstan’s GM Bibisara Assaubayeva, briefly jeopardled doubts. However, the 24-year-old from Chennai showcased resilience, defeating Ukraine’s GM Mariya Muzychuk in Round 10 to regain joint lead.

    In the crucial final round, Vaishali, playing Black, employed a Sicilian Defense to hold Tan Zhongyi to a 42-move draw. Lagno’s simultaneous draw against Azerbaijan’s GM Ulviyya Fataliyeva left both players at 8 points, but Vaishali’s better tiebreak—calculated by the average rating of opponents, excluding the lowest-rated—secured her the title. Assaubayeva claimed third place after drawing her final game.

    “This win means everything,” Vaishali said at the closing ceremony. “After a tough phase in Chennai with seven straight losses, I nearly withdrew. My brother Praggnanandhaa and family kept me going. With three Indian women—me, Divya Deshmukh, and Koneru Humpy—in the Candidates, 2026 is poised to be a landmark year for Indian chess.”

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Vaishali on X, stating, “Her passion and dedication are exemplary. Best wishes for her future endeavours.” FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich presented her with the winner’s trophy, with her brother Praggnanandhaa, a participant in the open section, by her side.

    Vaishali’s qualification strengthens an already formidable Women’s Candidates lineup, alongside Deshmukh and Humpy, following their all-Indian Women’s World Cup final in July. As India’s chess prowess surges, Vaishali’s back-to-back triumphs signal the rise of Indian women in the global arena.

  • India Clinches Hockey Asia Cup 2025 with 4-1 Victory Over South Korea, Secures World Cup Berth

    Rajgir, September 7, 2025: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team triumphed in the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, defeating defending champions South Korea 4-1 in the final at Rajgir Hockey Stadium, Bihar, on September 7, 2025. This victory marks India’s fourth Asia Cup title (2003, 2007, 2017, 2025) and earns them a direct qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Belgium and the Netherlands.

    Under the leadership of captain Harmanpreet Singh, India showcased a dominant performance. Sukhjeet Singh scored within the first 30 seconds, followed by Dilpreet Singh’s brace in the 28th and 45th minutes, and Amit Rohidas’s goal in the 50th minute. South Korea’s lone goal came from Dain Son in the 51st minute, but India’s robust defense and clinical attack sealed the win.

    Goal Timeline

    TimeScorerTeamType
    0:30Sukhjeet SinghIndiaField Goal
    28:00Dilpreet SinghIndiaField Goal
    45:00Dilpreet SinghIndiaPenalty Corner
    50:00Amit RohidasIndiaPenalty Corner
    51:00Dain SonSouth KoreaField Goal

    India’s campaign was marked by consistent performances, addressing a key concern highlighted by head coach Craig Fulton. After their 7-0 rout of China in the Super 4s, Fulton told PTI, “Always the hardest thing in sport is back-to-back matches. We got to repeat our performance. But at the same time, the guys are in a good place, they are playing well, and they are playing for each other, which is more important than anything else.” He emphasized the need for clinical execution, adding, “The hardest part was getting here, and now we need to just play the match and not the occasion, but you need to think about tomorrow. You need to be clinical.”

    India’s journey included topping Pool A with victories over China (4-3), Japan (3-2), and Kazakhstan (15-0), followed by a 2-2 draw against South Korea and a 4-1 win over Malaysia in the Super 4s. Their commanding performance against China secured their final berth.

    The victory, India’s first Asia Cup title in eight years, was celebrated by fans nationwide, with the team’s teamwork and consistency earning praise.

  • Amit P. Mesta Crowned Champions of Champions at Mr. Karnataka Bodybuilding Championship

    Gujjadi, September 3, 2025: Amit P. Mesta, son of Jyoti Prakash Mesta from Gujjadi village in Kundapur taluk, has achieved a remarkable feat by being crowned Champions of Champions at the Mr. Karnataka Bodybuilding Championship held in Bengaluru on August 24, 2025. His outstanding performance across multiple categories has earned him the prestigious Mr. Karnataka 2025 title, inspiring young athletes in the region.

    Amit secured gold medals in both the Men’s Physique and Classic Physique categories, while clinching a silver medal in the Bodybuilding category. His excellence in the Classic Physique division led to the highest honor of Champions of Champions, solidifying his position as the overall winner of the state-level event.

  • RCB Launches ‘RCB Cares’ Initiative with ₹25 Lakh Aid for Stampede Victims’ Families

    Bengaluru, September 1, 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, has announced a significant initiative, “RCB Cares,” aimed at supporting the families of 11 fans who tragically lost their lives in a stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025. The franchise revealed on August 30, 2025, via its official X account (@RCBTweets), that it will provide ₹25 lakh to each bereaved family as part of this initiative, marking a substantial increase from the initial ₹10 lakh compensation announced shortly after the incident.

    The stampede occurred during celebrations following RCB’s historic first IPL title win, a six-run victory over Punjab Kings on June 3, 2025, at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. An estimated crowd of nearly 3 lakh fans gathered outside Chinnaswamy Stadium to celebrate, leading to severe overcrowding and chaos near the stadium gates. The tragedy claimed 11 lives, including a child, and injured over 50 others, casting a dark shadow over RCB’s long-awaited triumph. The Karnataka government and a formal inquiry later blamed the franchise for inadequate crowd management, with reports highlighting that the stadium’s infrastructure was deemed unsafe for such large gatherings.

    In response to the tragedy and subsequent public criticism, RCB launched “RCB Cares” to provide not only financial aid but also long-term support for affected families and the broader fan community. The franchise issued a heartfelt statement: “Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us. No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a first step, and with the deepest respect, RCB has extended ₹25 lakh each to their families. Not just as financial aid, but as a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care.”

    The initiative outlines several key objectives:

    • Providing holistic support beyond financial assistance.
    • Ensuring safer environments for fans at future events.
    • Funding independent research on crowd safety measures.
    • Creating opportunities in sports for communities.
    • Preserving the memories of fans in meaningful ways.
    • Investing in the next generation through sports development.

    RCB’s initial response to the tragedy—a brief condolence message and ₹10 lakh per family—drew criticism for being inadequate, with many fans and analysts labeling it as “damage control.” The franchise acknowledged the backlash, noting that their prolonged silence was a period of “grief, listening, and learning.” The enhanced ₹25 lakh compensation and the launch of “RCB Cares” aim to rebuild trust and demonstrate a commitment to accountability. The team emphasized that this is “the beginning of a long-term commitment for meaningful action that begins by honoring their memory.”

    The Karnataka government’s inquiry, led by the Deputy Commissioner, highlighted lapses in planning by RCB and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). A report submitted to the Karnataka High Court declared Chinnaswamy Stadium “unsafe” for large gatherings, leading to the relocation of events like the 2025 Maharaja Trophy and Women’s ODI World Cup matches. The state government also announced ₹10 lakh compensation per family and covered medical expenses for the injured, but faced criticism from opposition leaders for poor crowd control measures.

    Fans have expressed mixed reactions on X. While some praised RCB’s increased aid and long-term vision, others felt the response was delayed. “Nothing can fill the void of a life lost, but this is the least they can do,” wrote one user. Another post lauded the initiative, with fans welcoming “RCB Cares” as a step toward genuine care and responsibility.

    As RCB prepares for the IPL 2026 season, “RCB Cares” aims to strengthen the bond with its “12th Man Army” by prioritizing fan safety and community welfare. More details about the initiative’s rollout are expected soon, with the franchise promising actions that “reflect what the fans feel, expect, and deserve.”

  • Gangolli: Stella Maris English Medium School Students Qualify for District-Level Throwball Tournament

    Gangolli, September 1, 2025: Students from Stella Maris English Medium School, Gangolli, excelled in the under-14 boys’ throwball tournament held at the Kundapura taluk level on August 30, 2025. Organized under the aegis of the Karnataka Government, Udupi Zilla Panchayat, Department of School Education, Deputy Director’s Office, Udupi District, and Block Education Officer’s Office, Udupi, the event saw the school’s team clinch first place, qualifying for the district-level competition. This victory has brought pride to the school, enhancing its reputation in sports.

    The school’s management committee, Principal Sister Vijaya Crasta, teaching and non-teaching staff, and parents congratulated the students for their outstanding performance.

  • Kundapur: Sachi Shetty of Sujnana PU College Selected for State-Level Shuttle Badminton

    Kundapura, August 31, 2025: Saachi Shetty, a student from the science stream at Sujnana Pre-University College, Kundapura, has secured a place in the state-level shuttle badminton competition. Her selection came after an outstanding performance at the Udupi district-level inter-college boys’ and girls’ shuttle badminton tournament, jointly organized by the Department of School Education (Pre-University), Udupi district, and Bhandarkars’ Pre-University College, Kundapur.

    The achievement was celebrated by Sujnana Educational Trust’s leadership, with President Dr. Ramesh Shetty, Secretary Pratap Chandra Shetty, Treasurer Bharat Shetty, and Principal Ranjan Shetty congratulating Sachi for her success. The college’s Physical Education Director, Jayalatha, provided guidance to the student, contributing to her accomplishment.

  • Kundapura: Janata PU College Hosts District-Level Wrestling Tournament, Emphasizes Sports and Education

    Kundapura, August 30, 2025 – Janata Pre-University College, Hemmadi, in collaboration with the Udupi Pre-University Education Department, organized a district-level wrestling tournament for boys and girls. The event highlighted the synergy between education and sports in fostering discipline and personal growth. Chief guest Nagaraj Kharvi Kanchagodu, a national swimmer and Guinness record holder, stated, “Education is a light that grows brighter when shared. This institution has been consistently nurturing talent. Celebrate victories, but let defeats ignite the spark of experience.” He praised Janata PU College for being a beacon for numerous athletes.

    Inaugurating the event, Maruti, Deputy Director of the Pre-University Education Department, emphasized, “Playing sports with true spirit brings joy to athletes. Sports instill honesty, discipline, and adaptability, shaping a meaningful life. Janata has molded many students into accomplished athletes.” Principal Ganesh Mogaveera added, “A healthy body fosters a healthy mind. Students engaging in sports alongside education can ensure both their health and a bright future.”

    The event was attended by notable figures, including Jeevan Kumar Shetty, Honorary President of the Udupi District Physical Education Lecturers’ Association; Sukesh Shetty Hosamatha, Secretary of the association; Ram Shetty, Kundapur Taluk Sports Coordinator; Jagadish Shetty, Acting Headmaster of Janata Aided High School; and Vice-Principal Ramesh Poojari. Principal Ganesh Mogaveera welcomed the gathering, Physical Education Lecturer Umesh Naik delivered the vote of thanks, and Uday Naik compered the program.

  • Anjuman Boys’ High School, Bhatkal, Under-17 Table Tennis Team Secures District-Level Victory

    Bhatkal, August 25, 2025: The Under-17 Table Tennis Team of Anjuman Boys’ High School, Bhatkal, under the banner of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, achieved a remarkable victory by securing first position at the District-Level Table Tennis Tournament held in Karwar on August 25, 2025. This triumph has qualified the team to represent Uttara Kannada at the State-Level Championship.

    The winning team comprised Saad (S/O Mohammed Ismail Mulla), Noufil Ahmed (S/O Hussain Shabbir Mukhtasar), Mohammed Ibrahim (S/O Abdul Hafize Pillur), Usman (S/O Adnan Sadique Ruknuddin), and Ahmed Mohtasib (S/O Mohammed Mubeen Jukaku). Their outstanding performance, marked by dedication, teamwork, and sporting spirit, led to this well-deserved success. The Anjuman Boys’ High School community, established in 1999, expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement, lauding their hard work and commitment.

  • Gangolli: G. Mohammad Rashdan Wins First Prize in District-Level Karate Competition

    Gangolli, August 20, 2025 – G. Mohammad Rashdan, a 10th-grade student from Stella Maris English Medium School, Gangolli, and son of Mohiddin (Noor) and Rubina, secured first prize in the district-level karate competition held in Udyavara. The event, organized by the Udupi Zilla Panchayat Department of School Education (Administration) for the 2025-26 academic year, featured primary and high school students competing in various sports. Rashdan’s achievement has brought pride to his school and hometown.

    Rashdan has also been selected to represent Udupi district at the state-level karate competition, marking another milestone in his sporting journey.

    Rashdan’s success follows his earlier triumphs. On August 9, 2025, he won first place in the taluk-level karate competition in Kandalur. Additionally, on August 3, 2025, he excelled at an international open karate championship, securing first place in the Kumite category and second place in the Kata category. These accomplishments highlight his exceptional skill and commitment to karate.

    Rashdan’s consistent performance across taluk, district, and international levels underscores his potential as a rising star in martial arts, inspiring young talents in Udupi district and beyond.

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  • Gangolli’s Mohammed Rashdan Shines at 3rd International Level Open Karate Championship 2025 in Shivamogga

    Gangolli, August 04, 2025: The 3rd International Level Open Karate Championship 2025 concluded with great success at the Nehru Indoor Stadium in Shivamogga, Karnataka, where Gangolli’s own Mohammed Rashdan emerged as a standout performer.

    The young talent, son of Mohiddin (Noor) and Rubeena, and a 10th standard student at Stella Maris English Medium School, Gangolli, trains under the KDF Karate & Fitness Academy in Kundapura. Rashdan showcased his exceptional skills by securing a 2nd place in Kata and a triumphant 1st place in Kumite in the under 15 category, and has also earned several medals in district and state-level karate championships, bringing immense pride to his hometown and marking his presence on an international stage.

    The championship, organized by A.Z. Martial Arts Academy India and affiliated with Akhila Karnataka Sports Karate Association and Karate India Organisation (KIO), attracted nearly 1,500 students from countries including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and the UAE. The event featured intense competition across 10 rings simultaneously, highlighting the global appeal of karate. Kiran Kundapura, a master at Kiran’s Dragon Fist Karate School in Kundapura, expressed his pride, stating, “We are thrilled to see nearly 1,500 students participate with fierce competition. It’s a proud moment to host this international event in Karnataka for the first time, instead of countries like the UAE and Malaysia.”

    Stella Maris High School felicitated Rashdan for his remarkable achievements, recognizing his dedication and talent. The certificate, signed by Chief Guest S. Madhu Bangarappa, Minister of School Education & Literacy and also Shivamogga District Incharge Minister, Government of Karnataka, and organizer Dr. Shihan A.Z. Muheeb, stands as a testament to his success. This third edition of the championship underscores the growing prominence of karate globally, with Rashdan’s performance serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in the region.