RIYADH: Young Indian students from Riyadh have brought laurels to India and the global Tamil community by delivering a stellar performance at the World Silambam Championship 2026 held in Malaysia.
Competing against 36 teams from 11 countries, the Riyadh-based youngsters clinched an impressive 28 medals — 13 Gold, 5 Silver and 10 Bronze, securing third place overall (Second Runner-up) in the championship.
The remarkable feat has emerged as a proud moment for the Indian and Tamil communities, highlighting the talent of young expatriates while taking Silambam, the ancient martial art of the Tamil people, to the international arena. Their success has also demonstrated how traditional Tamil heritage can be preserved and promoted among the younger generation.
The Riyadh-based young champions who represented India at the World Silambam Championship 2026 in Malaysia are: Dhruvan Gopalakrishnan, Ghanakshi Gowrisankar, Praganya Pradeepraja, Sithvik Veliappan Aravinthan, Adhvik Vaibav Vinoth Kumar, Sudhishnaa Tamilvalavan, Netravathi Pitchairaj Lakshmipriya, Aaradhana Sree Vinoth Kumar, Avighna Gowrisankar, Madhumithra Subashbabu, Rashidhashri Gokulraj, Pranaya Prakash Kannan, Mrithula Subashbabu and Mahilakshana Subramanian.
The achievement was made possible through the dedicated efforts of coaches Aasaan Purushothaman Kannan and Aasaan J. Praveen Prabhu, recipient of the prestigious Silamba Mamani Award. Their commitment to training young practitioners and instilling discipline, perseverance and respect for tradition played a key role in the team’s success.
Team Manager Gokulraj was also appreciated for his effective coordination and guidance, while the parents received special recognition for their unwavering encouragement and sacrifices.
The outstanding performance of the Riyadh team has not only brought international recognition to their sporting talent but has also added another glorious chapter to the continuing journey of Tamil heritage on the world stage.
M. Siraj
