Goa (India), June 26 – The International Pythian Council, the premier organization celebrating art, culture, and diverse sports, has announced an exciting shift in focus towards the vibrant state of Goa. Mr. Bijender Goel, founder of Modern Pythian Games and founding Secretary-General, alongside Mr. Aushim Khetarpal, Vice President of the International Pythian Council, and Mr. B.H. Anilkumar, President of the Pythian Council of India, recently visited Goa to explore hosting two major events: the Pythian Award Ceremony in February 2024 and the Pythian National Games in October 2024. During their visit, the delegation also explored infrastructure in Puducherry and Kolkata for the National Pythian Games.

Positive Meetings with Government Officials

During the visit, the delegation had the privilege of meeting with Mr. Pramod Sawant, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, and Mr. Puneet Goel, the Chief Secretary of Goa. Mr. Goel expressed his gratitude for the warm reception from Mr. Sawant, who showed a strong interest in supporting the Pythian Council’s initiatives. The delegation plans to present a list of requirements to the Goa state government soon.

Promoting Indian Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Mr. Aushim Khetarpal praised Goa for its rich cultural heritage and the hospitality of its people. He emphasized that hosting the global Pythian Awards in Goa would be an excellent opportunity to showcase India on the world stage, promoting both Indian tourism and the country’s cultural heritage.

Identifying Talent and Promoting Traditional Indian Games

Mr. Bijender Goel highlighted the Pythian Council’s focus on identifying talented individuals in the fields of arts, culture, and diverse sports for the Pythian Games. These events are designed to inspire people worldwide and attract global attention by incorporating traditional Indian games. The council aims to work closely with the Goa state government to advance this mission.

Inclusivity and Diversity with Disabled Cricket

The International Pythian Council has recently incorporated Cricket for the Physically Challenged and Visually Impaired into its charter, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. This addition aligns with the United Nations’ agenda to promote traditional cultural games and uphold cultural values globally.

Showcasing Indian Art Forms, Traditional Games, and Martial Arts

Mr. Anilkumar, IAS, President of the Pythian Council of India, shared the council’s intent to focus on various Indian art forms, traditional games, and martial arts. The council aims to celebrate the cultural diversity of India, ranging from music, dance, poetry, painting, and theatre, to culinary arts and digital arts. Traditional Indian games such as Circle Kabaddi, Mallar Kambh, and Modern Polo will be celebrated, along with martial arts like Kalaripayattu, Thang-ta, Gatka, and Silambam.

About the Pythian Games

The Pythian Games, which share historical significance with the Olympic Games, were originally part of the four Pan-Hellenic Games in ancient Greece from 582 BC to 394 AD. The Modern Pythian Games were revived in 2022 by representatives from 92 nations, following the initiative of Mr. Bijender Goel, the founder of the Modern Pythian Games. The concept was unveiled on April 7, 2022, at the Delphi Economic Forum in Delphi, Greece. With India holding global trademark rights, the Pythian Games blend traditional games with creative activities, drawing inspiration from the Olympic Games in their promotion of sports and cultural expression. The Modern Pythian Games aim to celebrate artistic traditions, diverse cultures, and foster global unity.

For more information, please visit: https://pythiangames.org/