Celebrating Unity: The BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Demonstration Games 2026 in Ahmedabad
A Grand Showcase of Cultural Sports
The BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Demonstration Games 2026, held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, was a vibrant celebration that transcended mere athletic performances. The event featured a dynamic wushu display from China and an impressive mallakhamb performance from India, while Kazakhstan showcased the serene togyzkumalak and Brazil presented a calming Jiu-Jitsu exhibition.
A shared passion for yogasana emerged as a common theme among the participating nations. Alongside mallakhamb and kalaripayattu, yogasana was prominently featured by the host country, India. Ahmedabad, which is set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, previously held the inaugural world yogasana championships in June, attracting 79 nations and 522 athletes, with significant representation from Africa.
International Perspectives on Yoga
Philasande Macwili, Chef-De-Mission of South Africa, shared insights on yoga's role in their culture, stating, "Yoga is a practice in South Africa that aids in detoxification, stress relief, and enhances flexibility. We cherish it and incorporate it into our daily routines."
The audience at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex erupted in applause during India's high-energy mallakhamb performance, which followed a beautifully choreographed yogasana display.
India's Dominance in Yogasana
India's impressive performance at the world championships in June saw them secure 114 medals, including 102 golds, highlighting their prowess in yogasana. A total of 31 nations earned at least one medal, with 10 countries achieving gold, reflecting the sport's expanding global appeal.
Yi Liu, Chef-De-Mission from China, expressed admiration for the yoga practices observed, stating, "We learned so much about yoga today. Even during practice yesterday, we witnessed young children performing incredible movements. We are eager to learn more about it."
Cultural Exchange and Hospitality
The cultural exchange was evident as a Chinese wushu athlete took the time to teach local athletes some techniques, showcasing the enriching experience of the BRICS Games.
Liu expressed gratitude for the warm welcome received in India, noting, "Our delegation felt incredibly welcomed, even at the airport where we were greeted by a dance group at midnight. The meals were delightful, and we enjoyed local dishes like dosa, making this trip truly memorable."
Reflections from Other Nations
Zlata Yakovleva, Head of Delegation from Russia, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "We are grateful for the invitation to this remarkable event. The hospitality shown by India has been outstanding. We thoroughly enjoyed the accommodations and the event venues, and the camaraderie among BRICS nations has been a highlight for us."
The inaugural BRICS Traditional and Indigenous Demonstration Games featured 10 nations and nearly 160 participants, with India leading with 50 athletes, followed by China with 30, Iran with 22, and South Africa with 14.
The event showcased a variety of traditional sports, including Belarus’ Gorodki, Bolivia’s Lucha de Cholitas and Tinku, Brazil’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Capoeira, China’s Lion Dance, Wushu and Health Qigong, Iran’s Zoorkhaneh, Haft Sang and Ghanieh, Kazakhstan’s Asyk Atu, Togyzkumalak and Qazaq Kuresi, Russia’s Sambo and Gorodki, South Africa’s Kgati and Iintonga, the UAE’s Altabbah, and India’s Mallakhamb, Yogasana and Kalaripayattu.