Tamil Nadu CM Launches 'Dream Olympics' to Honor State Athletes

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has launched the 'Dream Olympics' initiative to honor state athletes who excelled at the 2026 Asian Games and the Chess Olympiad. The event, held at The Leela Palace in Chennai, recognized the achievements of these athletes with cash incentives. Notable athletes like Washington Sundar and R. Praggnanandhaa expressed their gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing its motivational impact. This initiative aims to inspire further excellence among athletes representing Tamil Nadu and India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2026, 14:28 IST

Celebrating Athletic Achievements

The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay, has inaugurated the 'Dream Olympics' initiative, celebrating athletes from the state who excelled at the 2026 Asian Games and the 46th Chess Olympiad.

This special event took place at The Leela Palace in Chennai, organized by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT). During the ceremony, Vijay recognized the athletes' accomplishments across various sports and awarded them cash incentives as a token of appreciation.

Athletes Share Their Appreciation

Washington Sundar, a member of the Indian cricket team that secured a gold medal, expressed his gratitude for the recognition from Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. He described the moment as both proud and motivating, encouraging him to pursue further excellence.

"Receiving this honor from the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay, is truly special. It serves as a reminder to keep striving for excellence!" Sundar shared in a post on X.

Similarly, Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa, who contributed to the Indian team's silver medal at the Chess Olympiad, thanked the Chief Minister, the Sports Minister, and SDAT for their unwavering support. He noted that such recognition inspires athletes to achieve greater heights for both their state and country.

"I appreciate the support from Honourable @CMOTamilnadu and the Sports Minister and SDAT! This recognition motivates us to aim higher for our state and nation! It's inspiring to be honored alongside fellow medalists from the Asian Games!" Praggnanandhaa tweeted.