New Delhi is gearing up for an extraordinary event. India will host the first-ever Global Pythonova Pythian Games from December 3-5, 2025. This was announced during the 3rd National Executive Council Meeting of the Pythian Council of India, led by Bijender Goel, the founder of the Modern Pythian Games.
Accompanying Goel were Shantanu Agrahari, President, and Siva Kumar, Secretary General of the Pythian Council. Their mission is both ambitious and inspiring. They aim to revive the Pythian Games, ancient celebrations that honored Apollo, after 1,630 years.
Originally rooted in music, poetry, arts, and prophecy, the Modern Pythian Games were conceived by Goel in 2020, with a formal launch occurring in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
The recent meeting saw delegates from various Indian states come together to push for local and global promotion of the Pythian Games. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations has pledged full support for this initiative.
In an encouraging update, Goel reported fruitful discussions with Rajesh Aggarwal from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, signaling a hopeful environment for inclusive participation in the games.
With endorsements from prominent organizations like the International Delphic Committee, Ecumenical Delphic Union, and the Government of Cyprus, the Modern Pythian Movement is gaining international traction.
Goel elaborated, “The Pythian Games represent a cultural celebration, a significant venue for artistic and community exchange.” His vision champions unity against a backdrop of division in the world. It’s clear that the Pythian Games strive to carve a unique niche in the cultural landscape.
The games will be introduced through a centralized franchise model, enhancing transparency and accountability within the process. Shantanu Agrahari has also announced that the next National Pythian Games will occur in September or October 2025, acting as a vital training ground for artists and participants.
India’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant young talent make it a fitting host for these global events. Unlike typical sporting competitions, the Modern Pythian Games are celebrated as the world’s only multidisciplinary cultural games, encompassing art, heritage, traditional sports, and innovative technology.
In essence, the Pythian Games provide a grand global stage for cultural expression, fostering unity in a world fractured by differences. With a promising structure in place, the Pythian Games are set to complement the Olympic Games, offering recognition to disciplines that often remain in the shadows. Underpinned by international guidelines and backed by cultural institutions, the journey ahead looks bright for this unique initiative.