HSB / Pune
Having mascots is part of any sporting event, more so a multi-discipline event. And it also lends itself to a lot of fun for the children and others, even as it promotes the Games. The ongoing Khelo India Youth Games are no exception.
Jaya and Vijay have been omnipresent in Pune, ever since Union Sports minister Olympian Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore unveiled the mascots. And now they are doing the rounds everywhere in the city. A handshake and hug and everyone is smiling.
The Mascots herald the theme and energy around the event. Vijay the Tiger and Jaya the Black buck are enchanting and bring smiles on every visitor’s face from the very young to the elderly.
Selfies and photos follow as children chase the mascots and go up to shake hands with Vijay and Jaya.
They have emerged as the star attractions in and around stadiums, at the food and fan parks with crowd around them.
The ‘Tiger’ and the ‘Black Buck’ have tremendous patience. They don’t get irritated and are always keen to entertain fans and public.
Pratima Shitole, a volunteer said, “They are representing Khelo India Youth Games 2019. I like them a lot they amuse all students, staff, coaches, players and spectators. They just make everyone forget their stress and maintain the spirit of the games. They have a great sense of humor. Everyone loves Jaya and Vijay.”
Another family patiently waited to get their pictures taken with the mascots and a kid wanted to keep walking with them all over the Balewadi Complex.
The athletes have won the medals and the Mascots have won the hearts.
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