The Phenomenal Rise of SepakTakraw in Bihar
Imagine a game that blends football, volleyball, and acrobatics. That’s SepakTakraw. It’s a sport that’s gaining rapid popularity in Bihar. Following the World Cup held in Patna in March 2025, SepakTakraw is now one of the state’s most exciting sports.
From Daily Wage Workers to Gold Medalists
In Patliputra Indoor Stadium, Sahil Kumar, a 16-year-old from Bihar, is training for the Khelo India Youth Games. For Sahil, SepakTakraw is more than a sport—it’s a way out of poverty. With support from the government, he and others are pushing themselves toward greatness.
Sahil’s family comes from humble beginnings. Yet, thanks to SepakTakraw’s low-cost equipment and the opportunities available, he is now able to dream of a better future. Unlike cricket, which requires expensive gear, SepakTakraw is accessible for many.
The Government’s Role in Boosting SepakTakraw
Bihar’s SepakTakraw players are making waves nationally. Over 600 active players are now competing. Thanks to the creation of the Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA) in 2023, SepakTakraw is now a priority sport in the state.
Bihar is making significant investments in facilities. These developments will help players reach their full potential. Additionally, the sport’s inclusion in the Asian Games further strengthens its status.
Bihar’s Medal-Lao Naukri Pao Scheme
Bihar’s Medal Lao Naukri Pao scheme is changing the game. It offers A-grade government jobs to athletes who win medals at national and international events. In 2024, 71 athletes received jobs under this scheme. It’s a breakthrough for players like Aarti Kumari and Rashmi Kumari, who now see a brighter future through sports.
National Success: Bihar Leads the Way
Bihar’s teams are excelling at the national level. In the 2024 Junior National Championship, the boys’ team won the national title. The sub-junior girls team secured a bronze medal. This success is setting the stage for future glory.
Moreover, players from across Patna, Muzaffarpur, Nalanda, and Saran are signing up in growing numbers. Karunesh Kumar, an international-level player, believes the state is becoming a force to be reckoned with.
A Historic Victory at the World Cup
Bihar’s biggest triumph came when the men’s SepakTakraw team won India’s first-ever gold medal at the World Cup in March 2025. The victory catapulted Bihar into the global spotlight. Bobby Kumar, from Saran, was one of the key players.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated the team. They praised the players for their exceptional performance. This win marks a new era for SepakTakraw in India.
SepakTakraw: A Future for Everyone
The sport is growing rapidly in Bihar. More players are joining every day. In fact, 18 players from Bihar are competing in the upcoming Khelo India Youth Games. Players like Aarti, who dreams of representing India, are paving the way for the future.
Bihar is also improving its sports infrastructure. New academies and programs are being introduced. With these developments, the future of SepakTakraw looks bright in Bihar.
Join the Movement!
Bihar is becoming the hub for SepakTakraw in India. The state’s athletes are showing the world what they can achieve. Want to stay updated? Follow www.biharsay.com. Join our growing community and get the latest updates on Bihar’s sports scene!