Hyderabad, January 11, 2026: In a stirring display of unity, harmony and shared humanity, Hindu, Muslim, Christian and Sikh youth of Hyderabad came together for the Sports4Peace Cricket Tournament and Multi-Faith Celebrations, organised by COVA Peace Network on January 11, 2026, at Boys Town High School, Hyderabad.
The event uniquely blended sport, spirituality and social responsibility, celebrating Christmas, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti and Sankranti through cricket and dialogue, reaffirming the message that peace and coexistence are strongest when communities stand together.
Cricket as a Bridge for Peace and Brotherhood
The tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from seven teams, comprising youth from diverse regions including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, and representing different castes and faiths. The matches reflected not just sporting skill but also camaraderie, mutual respect and inclusivity.
After the league matches, a special highlight of the day was the “Play for Peace Match”, in which two members from each team, along with leaders of different faiths and police officers, joined hands on the cricket field. This symbolic match celebrated the spirit of partnership, coexistence and harmony at a time when the world is grappling with unprecedented violence and conflict.
Multi-Faith Voices Highlight Shared Human Values
As part of the Multi-Faith Celebrations, religious leaders from different traditions addressed the gathering, underlining the common values of service, compassion and peace.
- Pandit Harinarayan Tiwari of Ayodhya explained the significance of Sankranti, highlighting its message of renewal, gratitude to nature and harmony with the cycles of life.
- Brother Edward Raj spoke about Christmas as a global celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing family, sharing, compassion and spreading happiness among all.
- Dr. Mazher Hussain elaborated on the life and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, stressing the Sikh principles of courage, equality and selfless service to humanity, which continue to inspire millions.
Call for Respect, Coexistence and Peace
Faith leaders Qari Mustapha Soofiyani, Rev. Yedla Surya Prakash and Ateeq M. Oosman strongly appreciated the concept of multi-faith celebrations, stating that respect for all religions and peaceful coexistence are essential, especially when societies across the world are facing rising intolerance and violence.
Police Applaud Novel Initiative for National Integration
Mr. Aerikonda Seethiah, Inspector of Police, Falaknuma, lauded the initiative as both novel and timely. He emphasized the need for continuous collective efforts to strengthen social harmony, national integration and peace, particularly by engaging youth in constructive and inclusive platforms.
COVA’s Three-Decade Commitment to Peace
Brother Thomas Chakalaka, Secretary, COVA, highlighted COVA Peace Network’s 30 years of work for peace, from grassroots initiatives to global engagement. He invited young people from all backgrounds to partner with COVA in building a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.
Winners, Awards and Acknowledgements
- Winners: Brothers 11, GM Chowni
- Runners-up: Rahman C C, GM Chowni
Prizes and medals were distributed to the winning teams, while mementos were presented to the guests of honour in recognition of their contributions and support.
The programme began with a warm welcome by Mr. Raju Vedala, Project Coordinator, COVA, and concluded with a vote of thanks by M. A. Kaleem, Programs Coordinator, COVA, who expressed gratitude to all participants, leaders and partners for making the event a meaningful success.
A Strong Message from Hyderabad
The Sports4Peace Cricket Tournament and Multi-Faith Celebrations sent out a powerful message from Hyderabad: diversity is strength, dialogue is essential, and peace is possible when communities come together with respect and shared purpose.
Team COVA Peace Network
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