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Bhubaneswar awaits an imminent launch of the Badminton High Performance Centre (HPC) at the Kalinga Stadium complex. Named ‘Shuttle by Dalmia Bharat,’ this facility was inaugurated on December 12, 2024, by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. It is expected to commence operations next month.
What is the Collaborative Vision Shaping this HPC?
The HPC is the result of a strategic partnership forged five years ago through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Dalmia Group, the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, and the Government of Odisha. This collaboration unites corporate investment, expert coaching, and state support to establish a world-class training hub. Delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project reflects a collective resolve to nurture sports talent. National coach Pullela Gopichand, a celebrated All England Championship winner, leads this initiative.
“We will be starting next month, and we will have trials for selection,” Gopichand told. The centre will train approximately 50 young athletes, offering boarding and lodging facilities to support their growth. The selection process, possibly a factor in the delay since the inauguration, will target children aged 10 to 14, with flexibility based on exceptional talent.
How is the Badminton HPC a Symbol of Aspiration?
The ‘Shuttle by Dalmia Bharat’ is an emblem of ambition for young athletes nationwide. Housed in a distinctive seven-storey, shuttlecock-shaped building, it boasts eight badminton courts and a seating arena for 400 spectators. At the opening ceremony, Gopichand remarked, “It’s not just a beautiful building, but an aspiration for thousands of youngsters across the country.” Under Gopichand’s expert supervision, trainees will benefit from top-tier coaching and modern equipment.
The centre’s eco-friendly design further enhances its appeal. Built with low-carbon cement, it features a rainwater harvesting system to recharge groundwater. This fusion of innovation and environmental responsibility sets a precedent for future sports infrastructure.
Badminton High Performance Centre Building Champions for Tomorrow
Targeting the 10-14 age group, the HPC aims to identify and groom talent early, creating a steady stream of players capable of excelling nationally and internationally. Gopichand’s proven mentorship, having guided stars like Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu, adds immense value. The upcoming trials will select the inaugural batch of trainees, offering them a unique chance to train in a world-class facility.
For Odisha, the HPC reinforces Bhubaneswar’s growing stature as a sports hub. Already known for hosting major events at Kalinga Stadium, the state is now strengthening its infrastructure to support grassroots talent.
How to Reach the Badminton HPC in Bhubaneswar?
Located within the Kalinga Stadium complex in Bhubaneswar, the HPC is conveniently accessible. Situated about 10 kilometres from Biju Patnaik International Airport, it is a 20–30-minute drive. Taxis and app-based cab services are readily available at the airport. From Bhubaneswar Railway Station, approximately 5 kilometres away, the journey takes 15-20 minutes by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or city bus. The stadium is well-connected by public transport, with buses plying along Nayapalli and Jaydev Vihar routes stopping nearby. For those driving, the HPC is reachable via National Highway 16, with ample parking available at the Kalinga Stadium complex.
