From Belief to Benevolence: Sanatan Cricket League Sets New Standard for Social Impact

In a landmark confluence of spirituality, compassion, and collective purpose, Zee News, in association with the Sanatan Nyas Foundation, successfully hosted the first-ever Sanatan Cricket League at Noida Stadium on 18th October. The event drew thousands of attendees and captured the nation’s admiration, marking a powerful example of how India’s eternal spiritual values can inspire social responsibility. The initiative, envisioned as a platform where devotion meets duty, aimed to extend support to flood-affected families across Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.

The League brought together India’s most revered Dharmacharyas, who took to the cricket field not for competition, but for compassion. The stadium witnessed an inspiring display of unity and purpose as Devkinandan Thakur Maharaj, Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, Indresh Upadhyay Maharaj, and Chinmayanand Bapu led their respective teams — Vrindavan Warriors, Bajrang Blasters, Radhey Royals, and Raghav Riders. Their participation elevated the event beyond sport, turning it into a spiritual movement that celebrated the idea that service to humanity is the truest form of worship.

The matches were filled with enthusiasm, teamwork, and sportsmanship. In the first semifinal, Vrindavan Warriors set a target of 106 runs in 10 overs, which Bajrang Blasters failed to chase, managing 71 runs, paving the way for Vrindavan Warriors to reach the finals. The second semifinal saw Raghava Riders easily chase down Radhey Royals’ modest total of 51 runs in just 6.2 overs, setting up a thrilling final. The grand finale was an edge-of-the-seat contest where Raghava Riders, led by Shri Chinmayanand Bapu, scored 125 runs in 12 overs, while Vrindavan Warriors narrowly lost by just 1 run, making it a memorable finish. Kathith was named Player of the Match for his explosive 64 runs, while Shri Chinmayanand Bapu Ji, the team’s captain, was declared best bowler for taking 3 wickets in 2 overs, as the Raghava Riders lifted the first-ever Sanatan Cricket League trophy.

Beyond the excitement of the matches, the event carried a deep humanitarian purpose. All proceeds from the league are being directed toward flood relief operations, with volunteers mobilized to distribute food, clothing, bedding, and utensils to affected families. This seamless integration of faith, compassion, and civic action transformed the Sanatan Cricket League into a beacon of hope and responsibility. The collective efforts highlighted that when spirituality finds expression through service, society flourishes with compassion and unity.

Speaking on the success of the event, Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor of Zee News, said, “The Sanatan Cricket League is a movement that reminds us of our collective dharma to serve those in need. At Zee News, we believe that true journalism lies in amplifying voices that unite the nation through empathy and action. This initiative beautifully bridges tradition with modern engagement, making spirituality relevant for today’s generation.”

Echoing the sentiment, Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO, Zee Media Corporation Limited, said, “Zee News has always believed in connecting citizens through meaningful initiatives that strengthen India’s social fabric. The Sanatan Cricket League is a testimony to how spirituality and sports can together build social harmony and purpose. Through such events, we aim to inspire more collective action for causes that truly matter.”

The Sanatan Cricket League, telecast exclusively on Zee News, has set a new benchmark in purpose-driven programming. It showcased how India’s ancient Sanatan values continue to evolve dynamically, engaging youth and communities alike.