Pune: Puneri Paltan, the Pune franchise of the Pro Kabaddi League, hosted an ‘Aashirwad’ ceremony for its players today. Inspired by the rich Indian tradition of seeking blessings from elders, the ceremony marks the initiation of the team’s campaign. Over 20 veterans, who are also Arjuna and Shiv Chhatrapati Awardees, graced the event to bless the team.
Sumanlal Shah, Director, Insurekot Sports Pvt. Ltd., said, “We are delighted to have legendary Arjuna and Shiv Chhatrapati Awardees bless the team today. We acknowledge these veterans for supporting our team and players as they gear up for our very first year in the league.”
Karthi Marshan, Director, Insurekot Sports Pvt. Ltd., said, “Kabaddi being a traditional heritage sport, an ‘Aashirwad’ ceremony befits the occasion as we kick off this season. We look forward to an action-packed season and putting up a good show.”
Wazir Singh, Captain, Puneri Paltan, said, “Our preparations are in full swing for the first season. Our interaction with legendary Kabaddi players today has boosted our confidence level and charged up the entire team.”
Shantaram Jadhav, an Arjuna Awardee from Pune, said, “I thank Puneri Paltan on behalf of all Arjuna and Shiv Chhatrapati Awardees present here today. It is a nostalgic moment for us as the event has brought back several memories from our younger days. We are honoured to be associated with the team and Pro Kabaddi League, which have taken steps to reignite the fire for the sport in the country.”
Legendary Kabaddi players and Arjuna Awardees Ashok Shinde, Shantaram Jadhav and Shakuntala Khatawkar blessed the team. Shiv Chhatrapati Awardees Ashok Kondhare, Asha Gaikwad, Anita Parawe, Deepika Joseph, Manik Bhogade, Manisha Kondhalkar, Manjushri Date-Bhave, Mohini Chapekar, Neeta Pawar, Nitin Ghule, Raju Ghule, Sadhana Dharia, Sangeeta Deshmukh, Sangeeta Sonawane, Shankar Kate, Sheetal Marne, Shobha Bhagat, Sumati Poojari and Suryakant Patil were also present on the occasion.
Puneri Paltan will be playing its first Pro Kabaddi League match against Bengaluru Bulls n Mumbai on 27 July, 2014.