Vidushi Gaur/New Delhi

Like other eminent personalities from the state, Punjab’s young sportspersons are also proving that their spirit extends beyond stadia and arenas ; many of them have joined the campaign to provide relief to the people affected by the devastating state-wide flood.

The heavy rain triggered floods across Punjab’s 23 districts, displaced thousands, inundated villages, and agricultural lands. However, the calamity has also triggered an extraordinary wave of compassion and solidarity from eminent Punjabis from different fields.

Leading the charge from the sportspersons is India’s hockey vice-captain Hardik Singh. He has adopted a family rendered homeless by the floods and taken on the responsibility of rehablitating them. In a heartfelt message posted on X, Hardik said he wanted to ensure the family had shelter, food, and a sense of security during this crisis:

Champion on the field, champion off it.

Indian hockey team's vice captain Hardik Singh adopts a damaged house in Ajnala and commits to rebuild it.

🎥 @initiatorsofchange_ pic.twitter.com/vp63iBboYO

— Jaspreet Singh (@JaspritSingh09) September 10, 2025

It  may be mentioned that team Hardik is part of the Indian team that beat defending champion South Korea 4-1 in the final to lift the trophy after 8 years. With this win, India has qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. 

Hockey captain Harmandeep Singh too has called upon authorities and communities to step up in extending timely help. His appeal on social media highlighted the plight of stranded villagers, urging collective action. He was seen saying in a video on X, “Punjab has always stood strong in adversity, and now it’s our turn to stand by our people”.

"ਸਚਹੁਓਰੈਸਭੁਕੋਉਪਰਿਸਚੁਆਚਾਰੁ॥"
(Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 62 – Truth is supreme, but higher still is truthful living)

Captain Harmandeep Singh embodies this spirit. Even after scripting history with India’s Asia Cup hockey victory, his heart beats for flood-hit Punjab.… pic.twitter.com/YnZ4YFQjtG

— Tarun Chugh (@tarunchughbjp) September 7, 2025

Young athlete Kunwar Amritbir Singh, who has inspired many with his fitness journey, has been using digital platforms to raise his voice, sharing updates, videos, and appeals for relief efforts. His activism has brought more visibility to ground realities, pushing youth groups and local volunteers into action.

In the heart of Panjab’s floods, entire villages are struggling to survive. Homes are gone, fields are destroyed, and families are left with nothing but courage.

Kuwar Amritbir Singh, a young athlete from Panjab, is raising his voice for those who cannot. He reminds us that… pic.twitter.com/CL3EhPQCsF

— UNITED SIKHS (@unitedsikhs) September 8, 2025

Olympic medalist and penalty corner (hockey) specialist Rupinder Pal Singh has been on the ground distributing food and essential supplies. Videos of him personally handing out packets to affected families have gone viral, drawing widespread praise. Rupinder said, “These people have lost everything. At this time, more than medals and trophies, what matters is humanity.”

Olympic medallist, & PC ace Rupinder Pal Singh engaged in distributing relief materials to flood affected people who are in a relief camp, in Gurdaspur, Punjab. Dist. Magistrate, under whom he works, appreciated him for his commitment in discharging professional duty. pic.twitter.com/qPRCZR8EXa

— stick2hockey.com (@indianhockey) September 3, 2025

Former Cricketer Harbhajan Singh who is known for his pace made one of the largest contributions so far by donating 11 streamer boats, 3 ambulances, and mobilizing ₹50 lakh to support ongoing rescue and relief operations. His contribution has been crucial in aiding the evacuation of stranded villagers from floodwaters.

A NICE GESTURE BY HARBHAJAN SINGH WITH DONATION 👏

- 11 Steamer Boats.
- 3 Ambulances.
- Mobilized 50 Lakhs relief.

Harbhajan Singh is standing together in tough times for Punjab. pic.twitter.com/pQBZtYq6wI

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 8, 2025

Meanwhile, hockey player Paramjeet Kumar has been offering hands-on help. Locals have witnessed him physically lifting and moving heavy food bags to ensure timely distribution in relief camps. His selfless dedication has been described by fellow volunteers as “a true example of sportsmanship off the field.”

#Punjab | Hockey player Paramjeet Kumar, who now works as a palledar (loads and unloads sacks of wheat and rice) at Faridkot Mandi. (Video credit: Paramjeet Kumar) pic.twitter.com/YD74eHQRtz

— The Indian Express (@IndianExpress) January 29, 2023

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As Punjab continues to grapple with one of the worst natural calamities in recent years, these acts of compassion from sports icons have become beacons of hope. They are not only mobilising resources but also inspiring countless others to step forward.