Sheer strength

As proof of the resilience and sturdiness of the enterprising Punjabis, the 67-year-old Kila Raipur Sports Festival has become a unique showcase of rural sports and acrobatics. Here myths have been created and shattered, reputations are made and marred often over a tin of desi ghee. The halo, the real one, surrounding the festival has to be seen to be believed as everybody wants to become a somebody and quite often, some nondescript little known farmer does realise the dream of a lifetime. And it is at Kila Raipur that in their endeavour to be ‘Rural Olympians’ — the most sought after title — villagers seem to climb on some invisible ladder and often reach heights denied to them somewhere else.

A visit to the venue is a must as it reflects the rural ambience which seems to be all pervasive even as one can reach out and feel the magic of the mega event. This world famous festival is spread over three days and for this period thousands of ruralites consign to the backburner their farming activity and other related chores. Over the years, the festival has obtained the spontaneous and passionate response from the far-flung areas of the country. — Ravi Dhaliwal

Glimpses of the festival captured by Rajesh Bhambi

A bullock-cart races ahead

Bahadur Khan pulls a car with ropes tied his ears.

Man holds 140 kg iron plough with his teeth.

  
Sher Singh holds 150 kg-iron wheel with his teeth (left); Another balancing act