Pravasi Sports gains momentum amid India's 2036 Olympics push

ANI July 5, 2025 195 views

Pravasi Sports is emerging as a transformative strategy to unite the global Indian community through traditional sports. The initiative, led by HIPSA, has already seen success with the Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League, connecting diaspora youth worldwide. With Ahmedabad's nomination for the 2036 Olympics, this program could significantly boost India's international sporting profile. The concept represents more than just athletic competition—it's a powerful tool for cultural reconnection and soft power diplomacy.

"Pravasi Sports offers India a unique soft power lever" - Kanthi D Suresh, HIPSA President
New Delhi, July 5: As India intensifies its global push for the 2036 Olympics, the concept of Pravasi Sports, spearheaded by the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA), is emerging as a powerful tool to unify the Indian diaspora, according to a release from HIPSA.

Key Points

1

HIPSA launches global sports initiative targeting Indian diaspora participation

2

Inaugural Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League showcases cultural sports connectivity

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Ahmedabad selected as potential 2036 Olympic Games host city

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Pravasi Sports aims to create international sporting narrative for India

With India officially nominating Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2036 Olympic Games, this grassroots-to-global strategy could be a game-changer, according to HIPSA.

At its core, Pravasi Sports is an ambitious programme launched by HIPSA to reconnect the Indian diaspora with their cultural roots through indigenous sports while also exporting these traditional games to the world.

The resounding success of the inaugural Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) has validated the concept. Diaspora youth, along with their foreign counterparts from multiple countries, trained and proudly competed in a uniquely Indian sport, generating both local excitement and international interest.

Now, HIPSA is rapidly expanding its vision. From launching the Global Pravasi Cricket League (GPCL) and the 'Chalo India' Marathon to planning a Pravasi Sports Summit, the organisation is laying down a multi-sport, multi-country calendar of events.

The idea is to bring India's sporting identity to the world stage while inviting global Indians to motivate their fellow countrymen to be part of India's journey.

Speaking about the vision of Pravasi Sports, HIPSA president Kanthi D Suresh said, "The timing couldn't be more strategic. As India sets its sights on hosting the 2036 Olympic Games, the creation of a global sporting narrative becomes critical. Pravasi Sports offers India a unique soft power lever, it not only taps into the emotional connect of the diaspora but also projects Indian sports onto the global canvas."

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his recent address to the diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago, called the Indian community abroad "India's pride."

With institutional support, international ambition, and cultural relevance, Pravasi Sports is not just an idea whose time has come--it is a strategic necessity on India's path to becoming a true sporting superpower.

Reader Comments

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Ananya R
While the concept is great, I hope they focus equally on improving sports infrastructure in India. Our athletes deserve world-class training facilities if we're serious about 2036 Olympics.
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Vikram M
Pravasi Sports is brilliant diplomacy! Connecting NRIs through sports while showcasing Indian culture abroad. The 'Chalo India' marathon could become as big as the Boston Marathon if planned well.
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Sarah B
As an NRI, this makes me emotional. My kids born abroad will finally get to experience real Indian sports beyond just cricket. Signed up for kabaddi coaching already!
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Karthik V
Hope they include rural sports too - like bullock cart races and mallakhamb. These are part of our heritage and can attract tourists if promoted globally.
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Priya S
The government should ensure proper funding and transparency in these initiatives. We don't want another CWG-like scam when billions are being invested for 2036.
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Michael C
Interesting concept! As someone who married into an Indian family, I'd love to learn these traditional sports. Maybe HIPSA could create beginner programs for non-Indians too?

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Tags:
Pravasi Sports HIPSA Olympics 2036 Indian Diaspora Narendra Modi Kabaddi Sports Diplomacy