Outstanding players from the winning teams of the Isha Gramotsavam 2025 finals were invited as special guests to watch the Prime Volleyball League (PVL) matches in person, where they were formally recognized for their achievements.
The Prime Volleyball League (PVL) is a professional men’s indoor volleyball league in India. Isha Gramotsavam, on the other hand, is Bharat’s largest rural sports festival — providing opportunities for rural, non-professional players to compete and experience the celebratory spirit of sports.
Honouring these players, Prime Volleyball League made special arrangements for their flight travel, stay in a star hotel, and opportunities to interact with international players. A volleyball used in the tournament was also presented to them as a special souvenir. Additionally, a video showcasing their experiences at Isha Gramotsavam was broadcast live during the match.
Applauding the initiative, Sadhguru described it as a significant step in motivating rural youth. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he shared, "The raw energy of youth in rural Bharat should find joyful expression through some form of sport. Recognition & acknowledgement from mainstream sporting leagues like @PrimeVolley is a crucial step toward encouraging more and more rural youth to take to sport. Congratulations & Best Wishes."
Isha Gramotsavam finals, held last September, saw Uthamasolapuram (Salem) emerge champions in men’s volleyball and Padaganuru (Karnataka) secure the top position in women’s throwball. Manikandan from Uthamasolapuram, and Rekha and Swetha from Padaganuru were adjudged the best players — all of whom hail from rural backgrounds.
Expressing his excitement, Manikandan said, “I play in a village and have only watched PVL matches on television or mobile phones. Seeing international athletes in person feels overwhelming. When Sadhguru announced me as the best player at Gramotsavam, my entire village celebrated with joy.”
Rekha shared, “I’ve always dreamed of playing in tournaments like PVL. Watching it live today feels like a step closer to that dream.”
Swetha added, “For those of us from villages, opportunities like this are rare. Watching PVL matches in person has been a wonderful experience.”
The Prime Volleyball League aims to elevate the sport’s popularity and provide a global platform for Indian volleyball talent. Modeled after the IPL in cricket, the league features both national and international professional players and is creating new pathways for India’s aspiring athletes.