Chandigarh University’s Golden Run in Sports: From MAKA Glory to Global Achievements in 2024

In a historic triumph that has etched Chandigarh University’s name in the annals of Indian sports, the university became the first private institution in the country to win the prestigious Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy. This monumental achievement is a testament to CU’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, fostering excellence, and redefining sports education.

The MAKA Trophy: A Milestone of Unparalleled Pride

On January 20, 2024, the MAKA Trophy was welcomed to the Chandigarh University campus with unmatched enthusiasm. The celebration was nothing short of a festival, as students, faculty, and staff came together in a grand procession filled with dancing, cheering, and heartfelt joy. The achievement follows CU’s extraordinary performance at the Khelo India University Games 2024, where the university topped the medal tally with 32 Gold, 18 Silver, and 21 Bronze medals.

This victory is not just about winning a trophy; it symbolizes CU’s holistic approach to education, where academics and sports go hand in hand. It’s about a vision that sees sports as a catalyst for character building and national pride.

A Year of Unstoppable Sporting Excellence

While the MAKA Trophy is a crowning achievement, it is only the tip of the iceberg in what has been an extraordinary year for Chandigarh University’s athletes:

Hockey Sensation Sanjay: Winning an Olympic bronze medal and receiving the Arjuna Award, Sanjay’s journey embodies grit and determination.

Cricket Star Arshdeep Singh: From being the highest wicket-taker in the 2024 T20 World Cup to securing an ₹18 crore IPL contract, Arshdeep has taken the cricketing world by storm.

Swimming Prodigy Mahi Swetraj: As India’s fastest female swimmer, Mahi clinched three gold medals at the 77th Senior National Swimming Championship. Her remarkable achievements were recognized by the Bihar Chief Minister, who honored her with a cash prize and a Sub-Inspector’s position.

The Olympians and World Champions from CU

Chandigarh University has consistently proven to be a launchpad for Olympic dreams:

Palak Kohli: Kicking off her second Paralympic campaign with a dominant victory, she continues to inspire countless others.

Reetika Hooda & Bhajan Kaur: These wrestlers and archers secured individual Olympic quotas, showcasing unparalleled focus and skill.

Yash (Kayaking): Qualifying for the Paris Olympics 2024, Yash’s journey is a testament to perseverance in water sports.

Arjun Babuta: Although narrowly missing the podium in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle event at the Paris Olympics, Arjun’s performance won hearts.

Rising Stars Making Waves

CU’s roster is brimming with stars who continue to shine on the global stage:

Jash Amit Modi: Winning bronze at the Asian Youth Table Tennis Championship, Jash cemented his place as a rising star in Indian table tennis.

Vanshika Shahi: A silver medalist in the 50m Rifle 3-Position team event at the FISU World University Shooting Championship, Vanshika exemplifies precision and poise.

Akashdeep Singh (Athletics): From university tracks to the Paris Olympics 2024, Akashdeep’s inspiring journey is a beacon for aspiring athletes.

Vaibhav Arora (Cricket): Playing a pivotal role in KKR’s IPL triumph, Vaibhav’s fast bowling brilliance left an indelible mark on the tournament.

Aruna Tanwar (Taekwondo): Her exceptional skills earned her a spot at the Paris Paralympics 2024, highlighting CU’s focus on diverse sports disciplines.

Mentorship, Infrastructure, and Vision: The Pillars of CU’s Success

Chandigarh University’s success in sports is no accident. It is built on a foundation of world-class mentorship, state-of-the-art infrastructure and a vision that places equal importance on academics and athletics.

From industry-sponsored training facilities to international coaching staff, CU ensures that its athletes have every resource to excel. The university’s emphasis on mental and physical well-being equips its students to perform at the highest levels.

A Legacy in the Making

The MAKA Trophy victory and the array of individual achievements highlight CU’s ascent as a powerhouse of sports in India. But beyond the accolades, it’s the stories of resilience, dedication, and community support that truly stand out. Chandigarh University is not just shaping champions; it is building a legacy where every student’s dream finds wings.

As the journey continues, one thing is certain: Chandigarh University is setting benchmarks, rewriting narratives, and proving that dreams, when backed by support and hard work, can indeed come true.