Sri Vijaya Puram, June 12: The capital city witnessed a magnificent display of martial arts excellence as the Pencak Silat Association of Andaman & Nicobar Islands successfully hosted the 1st State Pencak Silat Championship from June 10 to June 11, 2026.
The two-day mega event brought together over 160 elite athletes from across the archipelago. The tournament boasted an incredibly high standard of competition, featuring an illustrious line-up of competitors that included South Zone champions, National champions, ASMITA Pencak Silat League victors, Beach Games champions and decorated Asian champions. Every athlete pushed their physical and tactical limits, delivering fierce, high-stakes matches to secure their places on the podium.
The championship commenced with a vibrant opening ceremony attended by a host of prominent dignitaries. Shri C. Kannan, General Secretary of the Lions Club, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Special Guest Shri Yegambaram, Pradhan of Calicut. Their presence, along with other distinguished guests, provided immense encouragement to the young martial artists as the tournament got underway.
The event concluded with an inspiring closing ceremony that celebrated the hard work and triumph of the medal-winning students. Advocate Shri Rakesh Paul Govind attended as the Chief Guest for the valedictory function, alongside Guest of Honour Shri Anil Goel with other distinguished guests.
The dignitaries praised the Association’s flawless organization of the tournament and lauded the athletes for raising the bar for martial arts in the region.
The Pencak Silat Association of Andaman & Nicobar Islands extended its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, coaches, officials, and guests who contributed to making this historic inaugural state championship a resounding success.