THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, MARCH 19, 2026

Bringing pride to the nation and showcasing exceptional sporting talent, athletes from Jindal Sports Hostel have achieved remarkable success at the Acropolis International Wushu Open Tournament held in Athens from 13th to 15th March 2026, clinching one gold and one silver medal at the prestigious global event.

Rising star Sabini Munda delivered a stellar performance in the 39 kg Under-14 Girls category, outclassing her opponent from France in the final to secure the gold medal. Her victory reflects not only her grit and discipline but also the rigorous training ecosystem fostered at the hostel.

In another commendable feat, Manju Munda showcased remarkable resilience in the 48 kg Senior Women category, earning the silver medal after a closely contested final against a Greek competitor, further elevating the hostel’s international standing.

The Jindal Sports Hostel, an initiative of the Jindal Foundation led by Naveen Jindal, continues to emerge as a cradle of sporting excellence. Situated in the tribal heartland of Barbil in Odisha, the facility nurtures young talent from underprivileged backgrounds by offering world-class sports infrastructure alongside CBSE-based education to around 60 athletes.

With state-of-the-art amenities including advanced training equipment, a fourth-generation gym, and expert coaching support, the hostel ensures holistic development through structured fitness regimes, proper nutrition, and academic guidance. Its sustained collaboration with state and district-level Wushu associations has significantly boosted the popularity of combat sports in the region.

Over the years, athletes from the hostel have brought laurels from international arenas in countries like Russia, China, Brazil, Bangladesh, and Brunei, reinforcing its reputation as a powerhouse of grassroots sports development. By promoting disciplines such as Wushu, kickboxing, hockey, cricket, football, and archery, the Foundation has positively impacted over 50,000 rural and tribal athletes.

The recent triumph in Greece stands as yet another testament to the Foundation’s enduring commitment to empowering youth through sports and shaping champions who shine on the global stage.