Tripura hosts bodybuilding competition for youth

Both beauty and brawn was much on display in Agartala, as men and women from all over the state competed in the 2010-11 state level championship of bodybuilding and weightlifting.

The three-day event was jointly organized under the aegis of Tripura bodybuilding, weightlifting association and the local clubs. More than 130 participants took part in the second edition of the competition that aimed to promote bodybuilding and weightlifting as a career opportunity among the youth in Tripura.

"I hope more such competitions are organized, as it gives a good platform through which youths can be selected for performing at national level competitions. Bodybuilding is one of the components that keeps people disease free and healthy and also plays a role in keeping them on the right track," said Jishu Deb, a participant.

The event included men's bodybuilding, model search, women's bodybuilding, fitness and figure, weightlifting and arm wrestling competitions. Participants struck menacing poses and judges rated them on physique size, symmetry and muscle definition.

The jury panel included former body builders and weightlifters, who found the event to be a good platform for the youth of the state.

"We found that it is a good time to organize such an event so that young boys are motivated. It also helps the youth to be involved in the mainstream of the country," said Binoy Sinha, the organizer.

"I think such competitions not only help the youth stay healthy but also prepare them for national meets. Bodybuilding is a type of addiction that keeps a person busy for better health and keeps him away from other harmful addictions," added Abhijit Das, a participant.

Another striking aspect of the competition was the huge participation of women. They seemed more professional and outgoing in their approach reflecting the changes taking place in the society.

"I have come here to participate in weightlifting and have enjoyed the competition. I have been selected first in one of the competitions. I think it is a great opportunity for the youth," said Rupali Debbarma, a participant.

Despite facing all odds like insurgency that had delayed the development of the northeast for years, sportspersons like Somdev Burman, Jayanta Talukdar, SandhyaRani, Renubala Chanu and Monika Singh, who came out victorious at the 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG) are a source of inspiration for the young upcoming athletes. (ANI)