After a journey that began last year in Delhi, the Pythian Games is now set for a revival after a 1630-years hiatus with the inaugural national Cultural Pythian Games edition in Chandigarh scheduled to be held from December 12 to 15.
This grand event is expected to see participation from around 5,000 artists and athletes from India, along with representatives from over 15 countries, including Russia.
These games were first held around 582 BC when the Greek god Apollo killed the mythical Python and set up the Oracle at Delphi. However, according to the organizers, these games were discontinued in 394 AD.
A 30-event roster
Inspired by Pierre de Coubertin’s revival of the Olympic Games, India’s Bijender Goel founded the International Pythian Games and hosted the Modern Pythian Games in Delhi in December last year.
Now, he is gearing up to host the first National Cultural Pythian Games, comprising of almost 30 events on the roster, including the ancient ‘Gada Yudh’ across three venues from December 12-15.
“These Games are not just about arts and games; they represent a cultural movement, uniting us both online and offline. With support from around the world, we are embarking on this amazing journey together towards unity and peace,” said Goel, in an interaction with the media.
“In April 2022, I was invited by the Delphic Economic Forum, headed by the President of Greece, to present the concept of the Modern Pythian Games at Delphi, Greece, the birthplace of the ancient Pythian Games,” he added.
“There the seeds of Games’ revival were sown. Hosting the first international edition was a big step and now we want India to embrace it completely and here we are, ready to fight for its revival.”
Multiple indigenous sports
The inaugural edition will feature events such as Karate, Kungfu, Bukido, Yoga, Rope skipping, Arm wrestling, Marathon, Mallakhamb, Theatre, Clay art, Tennis, Volleyball, and many others.
“The games not only celebrate human achievement but also address the needs of artists worldwide. Beyond competition, modern Pythian games provide a platform for countries to showcase their arts, cultures, and traditional games, fostering connections across boundaries.”
“The Games will play a crucial role in the future by formalizing the arts, cultural, and traditional games industry, valued at over USD 1000 billion, into the organized sector, thereby boosting tourism, aiding economies, and generating global employment opportunities,” he concluded.