Rotary Premier League Kicks Off in Varanasi with Grand Opening Ceremony
MP Manoj Tiwari Praises Rotary’s Efforts in Promoting “Khelega India, Khilega India” Mission.
Varanasi: The Rotary Premier League (RPL) 3120, organized by the Rotary Club of Banaras, commenced with great enthusiasm on Wednesday at Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, Sigra. The five-day cricket tournament began with a vibrant inaugural ceremony attended by Member of Parliament and renowned singer Manoj Tiwari as the chief guest, along with Mayor Ashok Tiwari.
The event was formally inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and an introduction of the players. Adding to the excitement, Manoj Tiwari also stepped onto the pitch and delighted the audience by hitting a few boundaries.
Addressing the gathering, Manoj Tiwari said that while the world is currently living under the shadow of conflicts, Banaras is celebrating the spirit of cricket. He appreciated the Rotary Club Banaras for contributing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Khelega India, Khilega India,” emphasizing that such initiatives will be remembered as golden chapters in promoting sports.
Mayor Ashok Tiwari also lauded the आयोजन, stating that by hosting this cricket league, Rotary Banaras has emerged as one of the finest Rotary clubs in the state. Rotary Governor Dr. Ashutosh Agrawal honored the chief guests with mementos.
The program was conducted by advisor Alok Parikh, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Rotary Banaras President Vijay Jaiswal. Several dignitaries, including Ratishankar Tripathi, Ambrish Singh Bhola, and Dr. Karma Raj Singh, were present on the occasion.
Following the official announcement of the league by Manoj Tiwari, the stadium witnessed a spectacular ten-minute fireworks display along with the release of colorful balloons into the sky. Piyush Mishra presented the RPL theme song during the ceremony.
The opening match of the league was played between Rotary Club Downtown and Rotary Club Banaras Shine. Other matches included Royals Warrior vs Rotary Club Academia, Rotary Club Elite vs Rotary Club Mirzapur, and Rotary Club Kashi vs Rotary Club Greater.
A total of 16 teams will compete in 25 matches throughout the tournament. Ajay Rai and RP Gupta officiated as umpires, while scoring was handled by Nandu Yadav and commentary was delivered by Shubhan Hasan Khan.
