table tennis courts. Moreover, karate classes also take place regularly at the complex. Mela Mandi Ground is a multi-use historic stadium in Sargodha. It is mostly used for cricket and football. The Mela Mandi Ground was constructed to provide a vast ground for outdoor sports and activities. During March, every year (the country's spring season), several competitions are held here. Almost all Pakistani people watch these annual games. Sargodha is also home to Sargodha Astroturf Hockey Stadium, located near Mela Mandi Ground. It is home to the Sargodha District Hockey Team, and provides a reliable platform for the city's youth. Galaxy Sports Complex is a renowned Sports Academy of the city. A flood-lit football ground is under construction in Company Bagh, Sargodha. Food and drink Traditional food and drink The cuisine of Sargodha is similar to that of other regions of South Asia, with some of it originating from the royal kitchens of 16th-century Mughal emperors. Most of those dishes have their roots in British, Indian, Central Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Pakistani cooking uses large quantities of spices, herbs, and seasoning. Garlic, ginger, turmeric, red chili, and garam masala are used in most dishes, and home cooking regularly includes curry. Roti, a thin flatbread made from wheat, is a staple food, usually served with curry, meat, vegetables, and lentils. Rice is also common; it is served plain, fried with spices, and in sweet dishes. Lassi is a traditional drink in Punjab, including Sargodha. Black tea with milk and sugar is also popular throughout the city and is consumed daily by most of the population. Fast food Fast food is also very popular across the city. Along with local fast food restaurants, there are also several international fast food outlets in the city, including KFC, McDonald's, Subway and Pizza Hut. The world's biggest Gloria Jean's store is also located in Sargodha. Awards In 1966, the Government of Pakistan awarded a special flag, the Hilal-e-Istaqlal to Sargodha (also to Lahore and Sialkot) for showing severe resistance to the enemy during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 as these cities were targets of the Indian advance. Every year on Defence Day (6 September), this flag is hoisted in these cities in recognition of the will, courage and perseverance of their people. Notable people Makhdoom Shahabuddin (journalist), Award-winning journalist and Anchor Wazir Agha, Urdu Scholar Rafiq Anjum, actor Imtiaz Bhatti, former Ambassador / High