The grand three-day sports extravaganza, Impetus 2025–26, kicked off on October 8, 2025, at Ajeenkya D Y Patil University (ADYPU), Lohegaon, Pune, amidst great enthusiasm, pride, and sporting spirit.
Esteemed dignitaries graced the inauguration ceremony — Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain, Vice-Chancellor, ADYPU; Dr. Heena Sidhu, Olympian, World No. 1 Pistol Shooter, Arjuna Awardee, and Sports Director, ADYPU; Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, Dean, Student Service Division; Dr. Kamaljeet Kaur Sidhu, Executive Vice President, ADYP Group; Dr. Sunny Thomas, Dean, School of Law and School of Liberal Arts; Dr. Sachin Rajas, Dean, Planning and Development; and Dr. Sushanta Das, Dean, School of Science. Their presence inspired and motivated young athletes to strive for excellence and integrity in sports.
The ceremony commenced with the torch relay, symbolizing the eternal flame of perseverance, unity, and sportsmanship. The torch was proudly carried by ADYPU’s talented athletes — Prajakta Pashte (Football & Table Tennis Player), Shubham Tawade (Taekwondo Player), Annirdam Chakraborty (Kickboxing Player), Sasmit Sachin Hatwar (Kickboxing Player), Sai Santosh Nalawade (Basketball Player), Charan Naga Karthik Lokala (Karate Champion), and Aastha Senapati (Sailor) — before being handed over to the dignitaries for the final lighting.
In her inspiring address, Dr. Heena Sidhu highlighted that sports cultivate discipline, teamwork, resilience, and integrity, urging students to play with heart and honor. Dr. Kamaljeet Kaur Sidhu emphasized that true victory lies not merely in winning but in maintaining one’s spirit through every challenge.
The event concluded with a powerful karate demonstration, setting an energetic tone for the three-day celebration of athletic excellence, teamwork, and university pride.
