Suryaa Sports Desk: BRICS Traditional and Rural Sports, which was inaugurated on October 12 at Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad, Gujarat... Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya delivered the keynote address at the BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Demonstration Games 2026, which was inaugurated on October 12 at Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He proposed to set up a 'BRICS Repository of Traditional Sports' to provide the future generations with the traditional and rural sports that have been playing for centuries in the member countries. He made it clear that India considers sports to be a vital part of nation building and not just competitions. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister called upon the BRICS countries to cooperate with each other in three basic aspects for the preservation of traditional sports.
First, preparing a digital depository with information on the history, cultural significance, rules and grounds of traditional sports. Second, to promote continuous exchange programs between athletes, coaches, researchers and cultural experts of member countries. Third, it is proposed that all future BRICS sports competitions should include traditional sports performances as mandatory. He said that the government is spending around 3.76 billion dollars through Kelo India scheme for creating sports infrastructure. 10 BRICS member countries including India showcased their traditional sports skills in the most impressive manner in these exhibition competitions. The Mallakhamb, Yogasanas and Kalaripayattu performances on behalf of India were a special attraction.
Also, China's Wushu and Lion Dance, Brazil's Capoeira, Russia's Sambo, Belacus, Bolivia, Iran, and Kazakhstan showed their respective rural sports. This sports festival was held to show the universal brotherhood and the fusion of cultural traditions. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi along with many international sports representatives and athletes participated in this event. The Union Minister revealed that through the Fit India Movement, fitness is being made a part of everyone's life in the country and crores of citizens have been involved through the 'Sundays on Cycle' campaign. Experts hailed the sports festival as a great way to strengthen ties between the BRICS countries and accelerate cultural exchange.
