Is India Ready to Host the First Global Cultural Games in New Delhi This December?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- First-ever Global Pythonova Pythian Games set for December 3-5, 2025, in New Delhi.
- Revival of ancient cultural traditions inspired by Greece’s Pythian Games.
- Focus on inclusivity and participation from diverse communities.
- Support from international organizations like the International Delphic Committee.
- Unique multidisciplinary cultural games, complementing the Olympics.
New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) India is set to host the inaugural Global Pythonova Pythian Games in the heart of the nation’s capital, New Delhi, from December 3–5, 2025. This announcement was made during the 3rd National Executive Council Meeting of the Pythian Council of India, chaired by Bijender Goel, the visionary behind the Modern Pythian Games and the founding secretary general of the International Pythian Council.
Joining him were Shantanu Agrahari, President, and Siva Kumar, Secretary General of the Pythian Council of India.
Drawing inspiration from the ancient Pythian Games of Greece—one of four Pan-Hellenic Games dedicated to Apollo at Delphi—the Modern Pythian Games seek to revive this cultural legacy after almost 1,630 years.
Initially centered on excellence in music, poetry, arts, and prophecy, these games were reimagined by Goel in 2020 and were officially launched in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the meeting, delegates and executive members from various Indian states engaged in strategic discussions aimed at promoting the Pythian Games on both local and global scales.
In a press conference post-meeting, Goel announced that the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has pledged its full support for this global cultural initiative. He shared insights from his recent discussions with Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, which raised hopes for inclusive participation.
Goel confirmed that the International Delphic Committee (Russia), Ecumenical Delphic Union (Greece), and the Government of Cyprus have officially endorsed the Modern Pythian Movement.
“The ancient Pythian Games were a significant celebration of excellence in art, music, poetry, and prophecy, held in honor of Apollo in Delphi. After 1,630 years, I envisioned the Modern Pythian Games in 2020, and we formally announced them in 2021 during the pandemic. The movement has since gained global traction, becoming a vital platform for art, tradition, and cultural diplomacy,” Goel stated.
“In a world filled with divisions, the Pythian Games provide a global platform for unity through culture,” he remarked. He also revealed plans for a centralized franchise model to enhance transparency, accountability, and streamlined operations at global, national, and local levels.
Shantanu Agrahari, President of the Pythian Council of India, disclosed that the forthcoming National Pythian Games will take place in September/October 2025.
He emphasized, “These national games will serve as a pivotal training ground for Indian artists and participants.” Additionally, he stated, “With India’s rich cultural heritage and youthful talent, it stands as an ideal host for global events.”
Unlike traditional sporting events, the Modern Pythian Games are the world’s sole multidisciplinary cultural games, celebrating art, culture, heritage, traditional sports, and creative technology under one unified platform.
“In a world marked by differences, the Pythian Games extend a global stage for unity through culture,” Goel reiterated.
He also announced a franchise model that connects global and local efforts to ensure operational transparency and efficiency.
The games complement the Olympic Games, providing a platform for disciplines not included in the Olympics, such as art, heritage, traditional sports, and creative technology. Kumar highlighted that Indian operations follow an international charter and receive support from various governments, cultural institutions, and professionals worldwide.