India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games draws attention to its rich cultural diversity, historical significance, and growing global influence. In a letter sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last month, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) outlined the country’s intent to host both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, backed by the government. India is competing with other nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, for the prestigious event.
The letter highlights India’s unique position as a cultural mosaic, home to religions such as Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The message of the bid underscores India’s spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the world is one family,” aimed at fostering peace and unity globally. This message comes at a time when the world needs collective progress and friendship.
The bid also draws attention to India’s strategic position along the ancient Silk and Spice Routes, where diverse cultures intersected for centuries. This historical legacy has shaped India’s rich culture, much like the Olympic Movement. The IOA stresses that hosting the Olympics is a national priority, enjoying overwhelming support from the government, population, and commercial sectors.
India’s Olympic bid also notes the potential economic and social benefits, especially in South Asia. With over 600 million Indians under 25, the Games would serve as a catalyst for job creation, business opportunities, and development in sectors like sports infrastructure, tourism, and services. India is the only major economy yet to host the Olympics, and the bid emphasizes the importance of the Games for the region.
Although the letter does not specify a host city, Ahmedabad is considered the frontrunner, with the Gujarat government establishing the Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (GOLYMPIC) to plan the event. Home Minister Amit Shah has been overseeing the progress of the bid. A final decision on the host country will be made by 2026 or 2027.
