Bhubaneswar: The excitement is building as Odisha gears up to host its first-ever continental table tennis championship — the ITTF-ATTU 28th Asian Table Tennis Team Championships 2025. The countdown began today with the grand unveiling of the championship trophy by Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, at a vibrant ceremony held at the Athletics Centre of the Kalinga Stadium.
The event, organized by the Odisha State Table Tennis Association (OSTTA), marked a significant moment in the state’s sports history, highlighting Odisha’s growing prominence as a hub for international sporting events. The gleaming trophy, representing the spirit of excellence and competition, set the tone for the much-anticipated championship, scheduled to take place from October 11 to 15.
Following the unveiling, the Minister flagged off a specially designed publicity vehicle — beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and a mini playing table — where young paddlers showcased their skills with an energetic rally. The vehicle will travel through Bhubaneswar and nearby cities, spreading awareness and excitement ahead of the tournament.
Adding to the celebratory mood, a trophy tour will be organized in the coming days, featuring the championship mascot ‘Olly’. The tour will visit Puri, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar, engaging sports enthusiasts and inspiring fans to join in the championship spirit.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including Sachin Ramachandran Jadav (Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Sports & Youth Services Department), Dr. Yeddula Vijay (Director, Sports and Youth Services Department), Rabindra Parida (Organising Secretary, OSTTA), Jaydith Debata (Joint Organising Secretary, OSTTA), and N. Ganeshan (Technical Director).
