Guwahati witnessed a historic moment as the Sarusajai Sports Complex was officially renamed the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, in honour of Assam’s first Arjuna Awardee and legendary athlete Bhogeswar Baruah.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made the announcement on Thursday, describing Baruah as a “living legend” whose achievements continue to inspire the state’s sporting fraternity. Baruah, who earned the Arjuna Award in 1966 for his outstanding contribution to athletics, remains an enduring symbol of sporting excellence in Assam.
The renaming ceremony was held in the august presence of Bhogeswar Baruah himself. As part of the event, the Chief Minister also felicitated 38 talented sportspersons from Assam who have represented the state at the national level across different disciplines.
Calling the moment a “lifetime experience”, Sarma emphasized the state government’s commitment to building a robust sporting ecosystem in Assam. He said the honour was a mark of gratitude towards Baruah’s unparalleled contribution to sports and a step to inspire future generations.
The Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, one of the largest sporting facilities in Guwahati, has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the South Asian Games. With its new identity, it now carries the legacy of an athlete who placed Assam on the national sporting map.
