Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau.
As Uttarakhand gears up to host the 38th National Games from January 28 to February 14, 2025, the event promises not just athletic excellence but a unique culinary experience. The players’ menu will feature Uttarakhand’s traditional coarse grain delicacies, known for their nutritional value and health benefits.
Uttarakhand Olympic Association (UOA) General Secretary Dev Kumar Singh emphasized the significance of this initiative. “We want athletes to not only perform at their peak but also experience the richness of Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage. Dishes like Mandwa and Jhangora are packed with nutrients and provide the sustained energy athletes need,” he said.
The state is pulling out all stops to make the games a grand success, with meticulous planning underway across venues in Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar, Rudrapur, and Haldwani. While infrastructure and logistics are key priorities, the focus on nutrition sets Uttarakhand’s hosting apart.
Sports nutritionist Dr. Ramesh Chandra highlighted the benefits of the traditional diet. “Mandwa, or finger millet, is rich in calcium, iron, and essential amino acids, making it ideal for bone strength and muscle recovery. Jhangora, or barnyard millet, is high in complex carbohydrates, offering slow-release energy critical for endurance events,” he explained.
Echoing this sentiment, former Indian athlete and nutrition coach Meera Joshi said, “Introducing such superfoods to the athletes’ diet is a fantastic step. These grains are gluten-free, easy to digest, and excellent for maintaining stamina. I believe this initiative could inspire athletes to adopt healthier eating habits long-term.”
