First National Cultural Pythian Games in Panchkula

A Celebration of Art and Heritage

The inaugural National Cultural Pythian Games are set to take place from December 12 to 15, 2024, at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, India. This event will feature around 5,000 artists and athletes from India and representatives from over 15 countries, including Russia.

Key Figures and Events

Bijendra Goyal, the founder of the Modern Pythian Games, has invited Haryana’s Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, to be the chief guest at the event’s inauguration. Goyal has requested the use of the stadium and necessary infrastructure for free to support the event.

The games aim to showcase India’s and Haryana’s rich cultural heritage on a global stage, potentially boosting tourism and attracting international investment. A highlight of the event will be the revival of Gada Yuddha (mace warfare) in Haryana, known as the land of the Gita, for the first time in over 5,000 years.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Kurukshetra University and the Modern Pythian Games have agreed to research the cultural connections between Indian and Greek cultures, particularly during the Mahabharata era. This collaboration aims to connect diverse cultures and contribute to global cultural mapping.

Goyal explained that the Pythian Games, rooted in Greek mythology and established by the god Apollo, are considered the precursor to the Olympic Games. Unlike the Olympics, which focus on physical contests, the Pythian Games celebrate arts, culture, and physical competitions equally.

India has secured a global trademark for the Pythian Games, positioning itself as a potential global hub for art, culture, and traditional sports. Goyal emphasized that the Pythian Games are not only about preserving cultural heritage but also about creating a new global economic platform, with the cultural industry valued at over $2.25 trillion.