Malkhamb centres being set up in MP

Bhopal, Apr 19 (UNI) With the objective of attracting youth to the ancient Indian martial art form Malkhamb and providing training facilities, the Madhya Pradesh government is setting up Malkhamb centres in 13 districts.

The philosophy behind the regime declaring it a state sport is to take steps for revival, development and propagation of traditional sports. The pages of History reveal that Malkhamb dates back to the 12th century. Later, Dada Balbhatt Deodhar -- a sports trainer employed by a Peshwa -- refined the art after observing the agility of monkeys.

''A provision of Rs 2,49,30,000 has been made for the centres and the art. A Malkhamb policy is also in place. In the first phase, centres will be established in places of tourist interest,'' said Director (Sports) Sanjay Chaudhry.

Since 1980, Malkhamb championships were being organised in various states by associations with public cooperation. In 1996, the Centre recognised Malkhamb as a sport. A Malkhamb expert has the potential to excel in wrestling and gymnastics.

UNI