Gravity-defying leaps, sharp dribbles and high-flying saves lit up the Shaheed M Mansur Ali National Handball Stadium yesterday as the Ruchi 36th National Women’s Handball Competition got off to a thrilling start. The opening day saw players go airborne with spectacular athleticism, setting the tone for the 10-day showdown featuring 19 teams battling for national glory until August 25. Photos: Firoz Ahmed