The Government of Gujarat plans to develop international level sports infrastructure in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar and has set up a special purpose vehicle, Gujarat Olympic Scheme and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (OLYMPIC), to host major international sporting events. .

According to officials involved in the planning, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Sports Enclave, is currently being developed in Motera, Ahmedabad at an estimated cost of Rs. Rs 6,000 crore is going to form the cornerstone of Gujarat’s bid to host major international events.

“The 2036 Olympics will feature around 35-40 sporting events, including cricket, which will make its Olympic comeback after 128 years at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave will have the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket venue,” said a senior official. “The Olympic selection process is now in the ongoing negotiation phase. After initial informal discussions, we have entered a phase of sustained dialogue, which will soon transition into targeted discussions.

India has stepped up its quest to host the 2036 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games by submitting a formal letter of intent to the Future Host Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on October 1. This letter formally expresses India’s commitment to host the Games and marks the beginning. Have a more structured process with the IOC.

Karai Complex

The latest game-changer is a transformational project at the Gujarat Police Academy in Karai, Gandhinagar, which will transform 143 acres into a premier sports hub, with a state-of-the-art athletics stadium and multiple world-class facilities. This ambitious initiative will include land acquired from the Sabarmati Riverfront Project, thereby increasing both the available space and aesthetic appeal of the area.

at its core The Rs 1,200-1,500 crore project includes a state-of-the-art athletics stadium, designed to seat 30,000 to 35,000 spectators. According to officials, for larger international events, the stadium can be expanded to accommodate 50,000 to 55,000 attendees through temporary seating arrangements. This flexibility ensures preparation for important sporting events, with the stadium hosting Rugby 7s and major football matches.

The facility will accommodate a variety of athletics events including running, long jump, hurdles and other track and field sports. Complementing the athletics stadium will be an indoor multi-purpose arena featuring retractable seating, providing a versatile venue for a variety of events. The arena, designed to seat 5,000 to 6,000 spectators, will host a variety of sporting and entertainment acts as well as weightlifting events.

“The development will also include an integrated shooting centre, which will be equipped to cater to the needs of both amateur and professional shooters. This shooting center will serve both large-scale sporting events and heritage purposes at the Gujarat Police Academy campus,” said an official.

Starting in 2025, the project is targeted for completion in 2027, with extensive road works to ensure efficient traffic flow and accessibility. According to officials, its masterplan has been designed by Populous, world-renowned architects from Australia, who have been associated with all Olympic sports since 1996 and are also the master planners of the SVP Sports Enclave.

SVP Enclave, Naranpura Stadium and other sports infrastructure

Naranpura Sports Complex, another state-of-the-art sports facility under construction, has been built at a cost of 800 crores and is expected to open in January. “When it opens next month, it will be India’s largest multi-sports complex,” said a senior official involved in the development.

The complex has dedicated aquatics facilities, an indoor multisports arena, sports excellence centers and community sports centers with both mobile and fixed seating capacity. It is designed to accommodate sports such as aquatics, badminton, squash, table tennis, tennis, basketball and volleyball (indoor).

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave is being designed to host major international events. Officials said it will have a combination of permanent and temporary spaces to accommodate a variety of sports, including gymnastics, skateboarding, softball and tennis.

A village to house the athletes is being planned around the enclave, with land parcels already identified. Infrastructure for combat sports is being developed at the Sanskardham Educational Institute in Ahmedabad, while a velodrome for cycling events is under construction in Gandhinagar. Officials have indicated that the Mahatma Mandir Convention Center in Gandhinagar will house an international broadcast center and main press center for major international sporting events.

All major sporting events will be held within a radius of 30 kilometers as per Olympic standards. The Gujarat government is also considering developing satellite venues in cities like Somnath, Statue of Unity and Shivrajpur to accommodate all Olympic sports following the modern Olympic practice. The Sabarmati riverfront is being considered for rafting events, while Somnath, Ekta Nagar near the Statue of Unity and Shivrajpur beach near Dwarka are being planned for other water and sea sports.

Benefit to Gujarat?

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally announced India’s intention during the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) session in Mumbai in October 2023, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed support for Gujarat’s bid, his election The Gandhinagar region has played a central role in preparedness efforts. , Certainly, India’s letter of intent does not mention any city to host the Games.

The historical significance of Ahmedabad is recognized internationally, with its Walled City being India’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. “This prestigious designation underlines the city’s unique blend of cultural heritage and modern development. The city’s infrastructure is strong, highlighted by India’s first bullet train project, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor, which will be operational by 2028. This is complemented by an international airport, extensive road network and efficient intra-city transport. Through the metro system and BRTS,” an Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation official explained.

Beyond transportation, Ahmedabad showcases exemplary urban planning with its smart city initiatives, sustainable development practices and modern amenities. The city’s hospitality sector is well developed with several international hotels and a growing service industry.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and the Gandhinagar civic body are aligning their development plans with the Olympic vision. Ahmedabad has revised its city planning plans to include dedicated sports infrastructure and open spaces, while the draft budget for 2024-25 focuses on critical infrastructure upgrades, including a comprehensive traffic master plan and advanced utility systems.

Environmental sustainability is a key priority, with the aim being to make cities “net zero” through rainwater harvesting, better transportation and green waste management policies. Ahmedabad’s development plans also include iconic structures, such as The Rs 350 crore barrage and bridge on Sabarmati river will enhance both connectivity and urban aesthetics.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s 2022 Gujarat Assembly election manifesto promised to set up a “Gujarat Olympic Mission”, which aims to create world-class infrastructure to host the Games.

The state plans to secure the 2028 U20 World Athletics Championship and bids for the 2027 World Combat Games, 2029 World Police and Fire Games, 2030 Youth Olympic Games and 2033 Asian Youth Games, an official said.

“There are many other countries competing for the 2036 Olympics and the results will probably be known after a year or two,” a senior official said. “Even if Gujarat and Ahmedabad do not make it as host cities for 2036, the state government will continue its efforts to develop world-class infrastructure. After all, it was the vision of the Prime Minister, who launched the Khel Mahakumbh in Gujarat in 2010, that the state should excel in sports.

After this tragic incident, condolences poured in from various sections of the society. Tabla player Zakir Hussain passes away on Sunday (December 15, 2024) in the USA. Prominent industrialists, politicians, artists and sportspersons took to social media platform X to pay their tributes. Anand Mahindra posted, “Today India’s rhythm stopped…paying tribute.”

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi posted, “The news of the demise of the great tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain ji is very sad. His demise is a big loss for the music world. My thoughts are with his family and fans in this hour of grief. Ustad Zakir Hussain ji has left behind a legacy of his art, which will always remain alive in our memories.”

Also read: Zakir Hussain’s death live updates: Tributes paid to tabla player

Harsh Goenka said, “When the tabla loses its art the world becomes silent. Ustad Zakir Hussain, the rhythmic genius who brought the soul of India to the global platforms, has left us. Because of his association with HMV, I had the privilege of knowing him and hearing him perform at my home. His heartbeats will always resonate.”

Gautam Adani also tweeted and said, “The world has lost a rhythm which can never be compensated.” Ustad Zakir Hussain, our maestro, whose tabla beats will always resonate in the soul of India, has left behind a unique form of timeless art. His legacy is an eternal rhythm, which will continue to resonate for generations to come. Tear out.”

Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore said, “Ustad Zakir Hussain’s extraordinary mastery of the tabla has created a timeless legacy in the world of music. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and the countless fans whose lives he touched with his artistry. His rhythm will always resonate in our hearts.”

Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha said, “We will always remember his iconic ‘Wah Taj’. The world has lost a legend in the demise of the great tabla player Zakir Hussain Sahab. His groundbreaking contributions not only redefined the art of tabla, but also bridged cultures and generations, making classical traditions feel both timeless and new. His dedication to his art and his ability to inspire countless musicians around the world turned his music into a universal language of connection. May his soul rest in peace and may his legacy resonate in every rhythm and every heart he touched.

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta said, “The maestro who gave many sleepless nights at Hindustani classical music concerts. The man who knew how to connect with the audience through his artistry. The master who made tabla sexy. Goodbye Ustad Zakir Hussain.”

Actor Riteish Deshmukh told X, “The irreparable loss of Zakir Hussain saab is a devastating blow to India and the global music community. Sir, your music was a gift, a treasure that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Your legacy will live on. May your soul rest in eternal glory surrounded by rhythms and melodies. Condolences to the family and loved ones of the great Zakir Hussain Sahab.”

Karnataka Chief Minister K. Siddaramaiah said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, a true legend whose rhythm transcended boundaries and united hearts. His contribution to Indian classical music and global art is unique. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family and fans.”

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said, “The Lyrics Zakir Hussain ji’s tabla spoke a universal language beyond borders, cultures and generations. This clip defines how we will remember him, and celebrate his legacy. The sound and vibration of his rhythm will always resonate in our hearts. it will last forever, wow Crown! (It will always resonate, wow Taj!) My deepest condolences to his family, fans and loved ones. Om Shanti.”

Congress national spokesperson Dr Shama Mohammed said, “Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of tabla maestro #ZakirHussain, son of Allahrakha. My dad used to play his music at our house when I was a kid! May his soul rest in peace. Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi rajiun.”

Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav said, “The demise of India’s famous tabla player, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Zakir Khan ji is an irreparable loss. Condolences to the bereaved family. A heartfelt tribute.”

BJD leader Naveen Patnaik said, “Deeply saddened to know about the demise of tabla player #ZakirHussain. He was one of the greatest ambassadors of Indian music who introduced the world to the profound depth of Indian classical music through the #Tabla. Their mesmerizing rhythms wove a magic that touched souls and spoke in languages ​​beyond words. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family, friends and countless followers.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, “With the demise of tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain, India and the world have lost a musical genius and a cultural ambassador who connected borders and generations with his mesmerizing rhythms. The Padma Vibhushan tabla player and percussionist brilliantly carried forward his father’s legacy with exceptional performances and collaborations. His numerous national and international honors are proof of this. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans around the world.

Actress Nimrat Kaur said, “On 28th February 24, when I last saw Ustad Zakir Hussain live at Prithvi Theatre, I remember my heart beating to the sheer rhythm of his talent. His international superstardom and the pinnacle of his achievements will always be there to inspire and energize us. As a human being, it is imprinted as a soul goal for me to remain the most humble, kind and generous throughout my incomparable life journey. His kind eyes and mysterious personality will live on for generations… May your soul rest in peace, Ustad ji. There will never be another…”

Veteran cricketer VVS Laxman said, “It is very sad to know that the great legend of the greats, Ustad Zakir Hussain is no more. Sad day for the music world. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain Sahab makes the world of our culture poorer. With his fingers dancing on dayan and bayan, he brought Indian tabla to the global stage and will always be synonymous with its intricate rhythms. A doyen of music, a giant of creativity, whose works have endeared him to people for generations. His demise has left a void that will be difficult to fill. My heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and countless fans.”

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said, “Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely death of renowned maestro and one of the greatest tabla players of all time, Ustad Zakir Hussain. This is a huge loss for his millions of fans across the country and the world. I express my heartfelt condolences to the family, fraternity and followers of the great artist.

YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of tabla player Zakir Hussain. A great musician, he left an indelible mark on Indian classical music. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.”

Cricketer Virender Sehwag said, “Deeply saddened to hear the demise of Ustad Zakir Hussain, a true legend who gave rhythm to our hearts and souls. His tabla spoke a universal language. Heartfelt condolences to his family and well-wishers around the world. Om Shanti.”

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said, “Ustad Zakir Hussain played an important role in popularizing Indian music across the world, serving as an icon of India’s rich musical heritage. A true custodian of classical traditions, his contribution to art is unparalleled. His demise is a great loss to culture and humanity. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. #ZakirHussain”

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said, “India mourns the demise of the great tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, whose unique artistry fused Indian classical music and global sounds, inspiring generations across the world. Their rhythm was not just music but a heartbeat that united cultures. Your legacy will live on, Ustad ji.”

Congress leader KC Venugopal said, “I join the entire nation in mourning the tragic death of tabla player Zakir Hussain. His music won the hearts of billions of people and we will miss him dearly in times to come. My condolences to his family and friends at this time of immense grief.