Sakal Maratha Samaj Felicitates Wrestlers, Coaches, and Achievers in Belagavi
Yuvraj Kadam Urges Youth to Rise Above Addictions and Aim for UPSC Success
Belagavi: The Sakal Maratha Samaj organized a grand felicitation ceremony at Shri Jattimath Devasthan, Belagavi, on Sunday to honor wrestlers, coaches, and achievers from the community who brought glory through their success in the Mysuru Dasara Wrestling Championship and various competitive examinations.
Addressing the gathering, KADA President Yuvraj Kadam emphasized the need to guide the younger generation towards education and discipline.
“Many youths in the Maratha community have fallen prey to mobile addiction and distractions. It is our collective responsibility to bring them back on track and motivate them to achieve excellence through competitive exams like UPSC,” he said.
The event witnessed the felicitation of NIS coach Smita Patil, who trained six Belagavi girls to win medals at the Mysuru Dasara Wrestling Tournament 2025. Speaking at the event, Smita Patil said that after years of effort, Belagavi’s women wrestlers have created history.
“These girls have achieved success through hard work and determination. Next year, we aim to double our achievements and invite more girls to join the training,” she added.
Swati Patil of Kadoli village, who earned the title of Dasara Kishori, said:
“Our coach Smita Patil instilled in us a spirit of perseverance and courage. We will continue to work hard and achieve greater success next year.”
Trainer Prashant Patil, who coached Kamesh Patil—the first wrestler from Belagavi in 53 years to win the Karnataka Kanteerava Kesari title—spoke about the years of dedication behind the achievement.
“The sweat shed during early morning practice in Kangrali has now yielded success. Our wrestlers overcame injuries to bring pride back to Belagavi,” he said.
PSI trainee Shruti Patil of Kangrali Khurd, who cleared the Police Sub-Inspector exam, was also honored at the event.
“There is no need to fear competitive exams. With proper preparation and inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, success is guaranteed,” she said.
Senior writer Gunvant Patil noted that society must stand behind talented individuals to help them grow.
“When society supports achievers, they are encouraged to aim even higher,” he said.
Advocate Amar Yellurkar and Maratha leader Kiran Jadhav appreciated the achievements of the players and officers, saying such success stories inspire the next generation.
“These individuals have uplifted the social image of the Maratha community. Their achievements should be showcased as models for the youth,” Jadhav added.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including former Deputy Mayors Sanjay Shinde and Reshma Patil, social activist Madhuri Jadhav, and community leaders Nagesh Desai, Prashant Bhatkande, and Anand Patil.
Mahadev Patil conducted the proceedings, while Sharad Patil proposed the vote of thanks.
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