Paonta: As part of the celebratory programme commemorating the 90th birth year of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama, a five-day football tournament was held from 6–10 September 2025 by the Paonta Cholsum Tibetan Settlement. The tournament, organised for local residents and Tibetan settlers aged 35 and above, sought to promote health, community bonding, and harmonious relations among participants.

The closing ceremony of the tournament took place on 10 September at 3:30 PM, graced by the presence of Chief Guest Shri Devi Singh Negi, Station House Officer (SHO) of Paonta Sahib, and Special Guest Tenzin Namgyal, Tibetan Settlement Officer (TSO) of Sakya Tibetan Society Settlement, Puruwala.

The closing ceremony prior to the actual final match commenced with the serving of tea and refreshments to all attendees. Paonta Tibetan Settlement Officer Gelek Jamyang presented commemorative Ghoton souvenirs to the Chief Guest and Special Guest as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation. In turn, the Chief Guest conferred a certificate of appreciation upon Harry of Tasveer Studio for his dedicated photographic contributions throughout the tournament.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Devi Singh Negi remarked, “In celebration of the auspicious 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the organisation of this football tournament is a commendable initiative to foster goodwill and harmony between the local Indian community and the Tibetan settlers. It is essential for youth to engage in such physical activities for their holistic well-being—both mental and physical. Moreover, sports play a vital role in steering youth away from detrimental habits such as substance abuse. I am confident that such initiatives will help cultivate a healthy, harmonious society.”

Following the address, captains of each participating team formally introduced their squads to the Chief Guest and Special Guest. The Indian and Tibetan national anthems were respectfully sung before the final match commenced.

A total of six teams took part in the tournament: Paonta Cholsum team, Dekyiling team, Dhondupling team, Yougyaling team, along with two local Indian teams — Friends Football Club and Paonta United FC.

The final match featured an exciting contest between the two Indian local teams, Friends Football Club and Paonta United FC. Friends Football Club emerged victorious and was awarded the championship prize, presented by Special Guest TSO Tenzin Namgyal. The runner-up trophy was presented to Paonta United FC by TSO Gelek Jamyang.

The five-day tournament concluded successfully, strengthening communal bonds and promoting the values of healthy living, mutual respect, and unity in celebration of the life and legacy of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama.

-Report filed by TSO, Paonta Cholsum