MUMBAI: In a country where millions of children lack access to safe spaces and proper equipment for sports, one young individual is making a meaningful difference. Viraj Lohchab, an avid basketball player and former intern at grassroots Indo-Swedish Sportstech startup Spolto, has launched “Hoops4Hope”, an initiative dedicated to providing structured basketball opportunities for underprivileged children in Mumbai.
On April 26th, 2026, Mumbai will host an inspiring invitational basketball tournament aimed at under-16 boys and girls from underserved backgrounds. The event will take place from 10 a.m. onwards at the Shishuwan Pavilion, GSB Sports Ground, Matunga. There are no entry fees, and the tournament promises exciting prizes and medals to celebrate the talent and passion of these young athletes. The event highlights the impact of grassroots sports initiatives and aims to foster confidence, teamwork, and joy among participants.
Organized in partnership with Nivia Sports and supported by local coach Prabhu Maspog of Bayciti Academy, the tournament is part of a broader effort to nurture India’s youth through sports. Nivia, a revered name in Indian sporting history since 1934, is contributing high-quality sports equipment, a crucial element in building confidence and inclusion among new players.
India’s 2022 Report Card on Physical Activity underscores the urgent need for grassroots intervention, revealing that only about half of children and adolescents meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Limited access to playgrounds, inadequate sports infrastructure, and rising childhood obesity highlight the critical importance of initiatives like “Hoops4Hope.”
Viraj Lohchab’s journey began with a passion for basketball and a desire to create change. He partnered with coach Prabhu Maspog to initiate free training sessions for children from underserved communities in Mumbai. Within six weeks, approximately 60 children enrolled, gaining access to quality coaching and a supportive environment for the first time. Recognizing the momentum, Viraj expanded the program with support from Spolto, which brought operational expertise and outreach, leading to an additional 45 children joining the initiative.
Over the course of 20 weekends, Viraj and his team trained more than 100 children, honing their skills and igniting their love for basketball. To support their development, Viraj organized a weeklong sports equipment collection drive within residential complexes, giving gear to participating students. During the upcoming tournament, these young athletes will showcase their skills and passion and be presented relevant awards and recognitions.
Viraj emphasizes, “Basketball has given me confidence, discipline, and joy. Every child should have the opportunity to experience that. Access to sports should be a right, not a privilege.”
His story exemplifies how grassroots efforts, fueled by passion and strong partnerships, can create lasting change. The success of “Hoops4Hope” underscores the need for greater investment in sports infrastructure, equitable access, and youth development programs across India.
As Viraj remarks, “Sometimes, all it takes is one person to care enough to act. My hope is that more children will get the chance to play, learn, and grow through sport.”
