CHANDIGARH, Nov. 27 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday announced a major upgrade of the historic Charan Ganga Stadium in Anandpur Sahib, saying the project will transform the site into a world-class martial arts center.
“This stadium will emerge as a leading hub for martial arts training and will serve lakhs of devotees visiting during Hola Mohalla,” Mann said.
The stadium, central to Sikh history, stands at the site where Guru Gobind Singh founded the Nihang Singh factions in 1701 and trained Khalsa warriors in Gatka and other martial arts. The venue continues to host traditional displays during Hola Mohalla, drawing thousands for sword fighting, horse riding and tent-pegging demonstrations.
Officials said the upgraded stadium will include modern training facilities, new galleries and infrastructure capable of hosting national and international events. Mann noted that the project aims to reconnect Punjab’s youth with traditional martial arts while preserving Guru Sahib’s legacy.
The Chief Minister pointed to the state’s broader sports push, saying he and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal have laid foundations for more than 3,000 rural sports stadiums worth ₹1,184 crore. “Punjab has produced legendary athletes. Our goal is to restore that sporting glory,” he said, adding that international-level cricket and hockey stadiums are planned for Amritsar and Jalandhar.
Mann said improved sports infrastructure is also part of the state’s anti-drug strategy. “Sports is our strongest weapon against drugs,” he said. The government aims to build a sports ground in every village under the Har Pind Khed Maidan scheme.
The state has also appointed nine hockey players as DSPs and PCS officers and honored Olympians and local athletes. Mann said the Charan Ganga project fits into a larger plan to strengthen sports culture while safeguarding the religious and cultural significance of Anandpur Sahib.
