In a moment of pride for Odisha two athletes from the state secured gold at the 2nd Asian Yogasana Sport Championship 2025 held in New Delhi from April 25 to 27. Nibedita Sahoo triumphed in the senior traditional category while Om Kumar Patra claimed gold in both the sub-junior rhythmic and artistic categories informed the official handle of the statersquos Department of Sports and Youth Services on X. The event organised by Yogasana Bharat at the KD Jadhav Arena saw participation from 170 athletes across 21 Asian nations. Notably India dominated the competition winning a historic 83 gold medalsmdashfar ahead of Japan 3 golds Mongolia 1 Oman 1 and Nepal 27 silvers. Nibedita Sahoorsquos Stellar Performance Nibedita Sahoo a postgraduate in Yoga from Utkal University of Culture delivered a flawless routine in the senior traditional category with her precision and composure under pressure earning India a gold in the event. While this marks her debut international medal Sahoo has previously won district and state-level championships. Om Kumar Patrarsquos Double Triumph Meanwhile another Odia pride Om Kumar Patra emerged as a rising star securing gold in both the sub-junior rhythmic and artistic categories with his performances showcasing exceptional flexibility and creativity earning praise from judges and spectators. ALSO READOdisha govt plans helipad at VIMSAR Burla to airlift critically ill patients Indiarsquos Global Yogasana Ambitions The championship reinforced Indiarsquos leadership in yogasana a sport deeply rooted in the countryrsquos cultural heritage. Dr. Sanjay Malpani President of the Asian Yogasana Federation emphasised the sportrsquos role in promoting physical and mental resilience. With yoga set to debut as a demonstration sport at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan India aims to push for its inclusion in the 2031 Olympics. In this attempt athletes like Sahoo and Patra are pivotal to this vision blending tradition with competitive rigour. The victories again ignited pride in Odisha a state increasingly recognised for nurturing talent in niche sports. Additionally their success is expected to inspire younger generations to pursue yogasana aligning with Indiarsquos goal to establish the sport globally.