Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu), September 11 (HS): India’s much-awaited ocean sports spectacle – Kadal Kondattam 2025 – is set to electrify the coastal city of Thoothukudi from September 12 to 14. The three-day carnival promises a pulsating blend of marine adventure, participation by international athletes and a showcase of Tamil Nadu’s vibrant cultural heritage.
The festival will feature high-adrenaline competitions including stand-up paddling, kiteboarding, kitesurfing, kayaking and beach obstacle races. Organized by Aqua Outback under the leadership of former national kiteboarding champion Arjun Motha, and supported by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department and the state government, the event is pegged as a milestone in showcasing the rising popularity of ocean-based adventure sports in India.
With the tagline “Where Ocean Adventure Meets Tamil Heritage”, the festival aims to position Tamil Nadu as the country’s leading ocean adventure destination.
International participation
Over 150 athletes from India and abroad are expected to compete. Participants from Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Maldives and other nations will go head-to-head against Indian contenders. Leading sports talents from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha are also set to join the medal hunt.
Multiple categories across junior, senior and open divisions for both men and women will ensure equal opportunities for emerging talents and seasoned professionals alike.
More than just sport
“Kadal Kondattam is not just about competition; it is a celebration of our oceans, our culture and our community,” said Arjun Motha, founder of Aqua Outback. “We want the world to recognize Tamil Nadu as the hub of ocean adventure in India. This festival will inspire young athletes, foster international engagement, and build a holistic ecosystem for sports, tourism and sustainable development.”
Beyond sports, the event will host a Coastal Food Festival spotlighting Tamil Nadu’s culinary traditions, along with sunset yoga sessions, calisthenics and fitness workshops, beach clean-up drives and awareness programs on ocean conservation.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
