National Games 2020 mascot unveiled

Rubigula-- a flame-throated Bulbul -- is the official mascot of the upcoming National Games. The mascot was unveiled on Saturday amid a host of dignitaries. The 36th edition of the event will be staged in Panaji, Goa from October 20, 2020.

The name Rubigula was chosen via a social media contest after sports enthusiast in the country had been asked to submit their suggestions.

The mascot was a big hit with everyone present, including Chief Minister of Goa Pramod Sawant, Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State for AYUSH and President of the Goa Olympic Association Shripad Naik, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Dhruv Batra and Secretary General Rajeev Mehta and other dignitaries.

Wrestler Sushil Singh Kumar, the two-time Olympic medalist -- who won bronze in 2008 and a silver in London 2012 while competing in the 66 kg weight division -- was present at the event along with Anju Bobby George, India's first and only World Champion in Athletics.

Commenting on the launch of the mascot, Union Sport Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "Goa is a sports-loving state and with the Government actively promoting sports in the state there is no reason why Goa cannot become a powerhouse in sports. World-class infrastructure has been created for these Games which will benefit sportspersons in the state. The Games will help imbibe a sports culture in the state. We are expecting a grand celebration from October 20 to November 4 which will bring athletes from across India.”

“I’m confident that Goa will do a great job in hosting the Games and the National Games 2020 will be the best and biggest ever in the history of India,” he added.