Inaugural National Indoor Athletics Championships Set to Launch in Bhubaneswar

The National Indoor Athletics Championships are set to begin in Bhubaneswar, marking a pivotal moment for Indian athletics. With 278 entries, including notable athletes like Animesh Kujur and Praveen Chithravel, the event promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent. The state-of-the-art indoor facility at Kalinga Stadium offers athletes a unique opportunity to compete in optimal conditions. The championships will feature various events, starting with the men's 3,000m race, and will conclude on Wednesday. This inaugural event is expected to inspire future competitions and elevate the profile of athletics in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 22:21 IST

A New Era for Indian Athletics

The inaugural National Indoor Athletics Championships will kick off on Tuesday at Kalinga Stadium, marking a significant milestone for Indian athletics, according to Bahadur Singh Sagoo, president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).

Sagoo expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, "Athletes are eager to embark on this new chapter in their athletic careers," during a media interaction on Monday, as reported by the AFI. This first edition has garnered 278 entries, including 97 female participants, and is expected to serve as a catalyst for future competitions.

Key Athletes to Watch

Animesh Kujur, an emerging international sprinter from Odisha, is poised to showcase his speed in the 60m dash, aiming for a strong start to the 2026 competitive season. He remarked, "I'm thrilled to compete in my first indoor event, especially on my home turf."

Praveen Chithravel, the national outdoor record holder in men's triple jump, brings a wealth of experience from various indoor competitions across Europe and Asia. Competing in the men's long jump in Bhubaneswar, he noted, "The energy during indoor events is electrifying. The compact arena enhances the connection with fans and boosts athletes' confidence."

Advanced Indoor Facilities

Veddula Vijay, Odisha's Director of Sports, highlighted the significance of the indoor facility in Bhubaneswar, stating, "The government-operated indoor arena at Kalinga Stadium provides athletes with a valuable opportunity to train in any weather conditions."

Event Schedule

The opening day will feature the men's 3,000m track race as the first medal event, with competitions held in both senior and U20 categories.

The championships will wrap up on Wednesday.