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Abhinav Bindra Initiates Unique Tradition at Paris 2024 OlympicsIn a historic moment at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Indian shooting legend Abhinav Bindra became the first Indian to perform the "Red Baton" ritual, a new tradition that signals the commencement of events.The Red Baton, also known as the "brigadier," is a red baton that is tapped three times on the floor before the start of an event. The ritual originated in French theater in the 17th century, where it was used to signal the audience that the performance was about to begin and to maintain silence.In the context of the Olympics, the Red Baton ritual has been adopted as an honorary tradition. It is believed that the three taps represent the essential elements of performing arts: the actors, the spectators, and the story. Another theory suggests that the Holy Trinity is represented in the ritual, while a third belief states that the actor's key positions on stage are celebrated.Bindra was invited to perform the ritual at the Women's 10m Air Rifle final on July 29. As India's first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist, Bindra's presence added a special significance to the occasion.The ritual, however, did not bring luck to Indian shooter Ramita, who was eliminated in seventh place. Nonetheless, the Red Baton tradition has become a unique and memorable aspect of the Paris 2024 Olympics, adding a touch of history and symbolism to the proceedings.

Kodava Hockey Festival: A Month-Long Celebration of Unity and SportsmanshipNestled amidst the picturesque hills of Kodagu, Karnataka, the Kodava Hockey Festival is a month-long extravaganza that brings together around 300 Kodava families for a unique blend of hockey, tradition, and camaraderie.The festival was conceived by Pandanda Kuttappa, a retired banker, who sought to foster unity among the Kodava community. Recognizing the power of sport, he introduced the hockey tournament in 1997 with just 60 teams. Today, it has grown exponentially to include 360 teams, showcasing the passion and skill of Kodava hockey players.The festival is not merely a sporting event; it is a celebration of Kodava heritage. The families gather in traditional attire, sharing meals and stories, and participating in cultural activities. The tournament fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the bonds within the community.For the younger generation, the festival is an opportunity to connect with their roots and learn about the importance of sportsmanship. Many young players have gone on to represent Kodagu and India at the national and international levels.The organizers are constantly striving to enhance the festival experience. They plan to introduce new categories, such as women's hockey and youth tournaments, to encourage wider participation. They also aim to improve the infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the growing number of teams and spectators.The Kodava Hockey Festival is a testament to the power of sport to unite communities and preserve traditions. It is a celebration of Kodava culture, a showcase of hockey talent, and a reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and camaraderie.