Karnataka Chief Minister Launches Diamond Jubilee Badminton Challenge in Bengaluru
Inauguration of the KBA Diamond Jubilee India International Challenge 2026
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 27: On Tuesday, Karnataka's Chief Minister DK Shivakumar officially opened the Karnataka Badminton Association (KBA) Diamond Jubilee India International Challenge 2026 in Bengaluru. He expressed optimism about the future of badminton in India and reiterated the government's dedication to enhancing sports development.
This international tournament, taking place from October 27 to November 1 at the KBA venue, boasts a total prize pool of USD 25,000. Spectators can attend for free, with no tickets necessary.
During the inauguration, Shivakumar congratulated the KBA on its 75-year journey and acknowledged the significant role played by former Chief Minister Sarekoppa Bangarappa in its establishment.
“I am thrilled that the Karnataka Badminton Association is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee. I recall Bangarappa's pivotal role in its growth. Today, I represent the Karnataka government to inaugurate this event officially,” he stated to the press.
Shivakumar emphasized the importance of this international event for Karnataka and formally declared the tournament open, wishing all participants success.
“This tournament is a global event, with badminton being played worldwide, and the KBA is proud to host it. I hereby declare the Yonex-Sunrise KBA Diamond Jubilee India International Challenge 2026 officially open. I wish all players the best of luck,” he added.
He also conveyed his confidence in India's potential to enhance its standing in international badminton, assuring that the state government would persist in its support for sports.
“I am confident that India will make significant strides in the future. The Karnataka government is committed to sports,” he remarked.
The tournament aligns with the KBA's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, marking 75 years since its inception in 1950 as the Mysore State Badminton Association. Over the years, the association has been instrumental in promoting badminton in Karnataka through various competitions and training initiatives.
Located in Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, the KBA features courts with both synthetic and wooden surfaces and collaborates with the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy, which has been vital in nurturing badminton talent in the region.
This six-day India International Challenge will provide international players the chance to compete in men's and women's singles, men's and women's doubles, and mixed doubles events.
The tournament offers a total prize purse of USD 25,000, with singles champions and doubles winners each receiving USD 2,000, subject to applicable taxes. Runners-up in singles and doubles will earn USD 1,200, while semi-finalists will take home USD 500 and quarter-finalists USD 200.
The event welcomes spectators without any entry fee, allowing badminton fans in Bengaluru to enjoy the international competition at the KBA venue.
With the Diamond Jubilee celebrations coinciding with this international tournament, the KBA aims to showcase its contributions to the sport while providing a competitive platform for players from India and around the world.