Country/Region/City
Each FISU World University Championship is more than just a sporting event — it’s a unique opportunity to discover a new culture, explore a region, and connect with a vibrant academic community.
This page introduces you to the host country and city for this edition, highlighting their history, key features, and commitment to sport and youth.
India
India is the largest country in South Asia, both in area and population. Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal, and neighbouring seven countries, it stands out for its cultural, geographical, and climatic diversity.
Its capital is New Delhi, while Mumbai, the country’s financial capital, is its most iconic city.
India is known worldwide for the Taj Mahal, Bollywood, diverse cuisine, and cricket, as well as for its growing economy and rising influence on the international stage.
Mumbai
Set along the western coast of India, Mumbai, the “CITY OF DREAMS”, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends tradition with modernity.
Home to iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and Marine Drive, Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, radiating energy, ambition, and cultural richness at every corner. Known for its thriving sports culture, Mumbai has produced some of India’s finest athletes across Cricket, Football, Hockey, and Athletics.
With world-class infrastructure, passionate fans, and a spirit of inclusivity, the city provides an electrifying atmosphere for athletes and visitors alike.
The perfect host for an international event!
Somaiya Vidyavihar University
At SOMAIYA VIDYAVIHAR UNIVERSITY, our identity is deeply rooted in the timeless philosophy “ ॎनादेव तु कैवल्यम् – Knowledge Alone Liberates.” This belief shapes every experience we create and every initiative we champion. For us, knowledge is not just an academic pursuit; it is a force that empowers individuals, transforms communities, and inspires purposeful action. Guided by the principle नमानुषात् परो धर्मः, we remain committed to nurturing an environment where learning becomes a pathway to inclusive growth and meaningful contribution to society.
Our journey began in 1942 with the visionary Padma Bhushan Shri Karamshi Jethabhai Somaiya, who understood the transformative power of education long before it became a national priority. What started as a single school in rural Maharashtra has grown into a thriving ecosystem of education, research, innovation, and culture. Today, Somaiya Vidyavihar University stands as a multidimensional academic community with over 39,000 students and 1,500 faculty members across diverse disciplines while remaining anchored in its founding values of access, opportunity, and service.
As a university, we take pride in offering an experience that blends scholarship, innovation, and holistic development. Our approach encourages learners to explore the intersection of subjects, engage in real-world projects, question assumptions, and create solutions that have a lasting impact. Whether through entrepreneurship, research, community engagement, or sports, we strive to cultivate individuals who are resilient, curious, and grounded in integrity. Sports and physical education hold a significant place in our philosophy, fostering teamwork, discipline, and mental well being, echoing the Gita’s wisdom: “अभ्यासेन तु कौन्तेय…” growth through consistent practice. Somaiya Vidyavihar University is proudly Indian in spirit and global in vision. We celebrate our cultural heritage, embrace multilingual expression, and integrate India’s ancient knowledge traditions with modern academic practices. At the same time, we encourage global perspectives, collaborations, and research that empower our students to engage confidently with the world. Through all our initiatives, our aspiration remains constant to create an environment where every learner can develop character, expand intellect, discover purpose, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Somaiya Vidyavihar University stands as a place where knowledge empowers, values guide, and possibilities unfold.