Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar interacts with the mascot of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) World Cup 2025, at Patliputra Indoor Stadium, in Patna, Thursday, March 20, 2025
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday (March 20, 2025) abruptly left the dais ahead of the national anthem at the inauguration of an international sports event here, much to the surprise of the organisers.
The septuagenarian was brought back by officials after a few minutes, and the programme resumed.
The Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 is being held at the Pataliputra Sports Complex, with 300 players and support staff from 21 countries taking part.
At the inaugural ceremony of the tournament, the CM left cabinet colleagues and officials flummoxed when he abruptly got up from his seat and walked down the dais, as soon as the moderator announced it was time for the national anthem.
Mr. Kumar, 74, walked towards the participants and greeted them with a “namaste” and a wave of the hand.
A cultural programme was also organised on the occasion and one of the performers, who wore a mask that resembled the head of an animal, approached the CM for a handshake.
Mr. Kumar, who was visibly jovial after a day at state legislature where both Houses witnessed his fits of anger, appeared to be frightened and insisted that the mask be taken off.
The performer obliged and the CM shook hands, surrounded by Ministers and officials.
Finally, Mr. Kumar returned to the stage and the national anthem was played.
Countries like China, Indonesia, Japan, Iran, Nepal, France, Germany, Italy, USA, Brazil and hosts India are taking part in the tournament which will come to a close on March 25.
Published – March 20, 2025 09:57 pm IST
