The first-ever Pythian Games Festival got underway at the Tyagraj Stadium New Delhi on Tuesday (December 19). The historic festival which marks the return of some of these sports after a hiatus of over 1600 years, promises to be a dazzling celebration of excellence, blending the rich heritage of the ancient Pythian Games with the dynamism of the modern world.


The International Pythian Council proudly had earlier announced the comeback of the grand occasion, now rebranded as the Modern Pythian Games. The festivities will last three days long with the event set to conclude on December 21. The "First Pythian Games Festival 2023" serves as the thematic umbrella, offering a unique amalgamation of arts, culture, traditional game and sports.


Grand Opening Ceremony and Preliminary Rounds Mark the Commencement


The Pythian Games Festival 2023 kicks off with a grand opening ceremony, setting the stage for an extraordinary convergence of talent and tradition. Athletes and enthusiasts from around the globe gather to participate in this historic event, symbolizing the harmonious blend of ancient legacy and contemporary vibrancy.






Post the opening ceremony, the schedule for the opening day includes preliminary rounds that will witness participants showcasing their prowess across various categories. After the inauguration and the preliminary rounds, there will be concurrent cultural performances.

Traditional games like Mallkhambh, Indiaca, fientball, yoga sports, musical chair, tug of war, throwball, and the Pythian Pan Hellenic Marathon covering 3000 meters will all feature in the modern Pythian Games. In addtion, there will be music, dance, painting, poetry, photography, comedy, martial arts such as taekwondo, karate, Muaythai, Bagatur, and Shastrang.


Where To Watch Modern Pythian Games Festival?


Doordarshan has arranged a live broadcast of the opening ceremony, ensuring that viewers can experience the grand event in real-time.