1Research Scholar, B.P.Ed., M.P.Ed. Integrated Programme, Department of Physical Education, Swarnim Gujarat Sports University, Desar, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
2Associate Professor & Former Head, Department of Physical Education, Swarnim Gujarat Sports University, Desar, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
The Commonwealth Games have emerged as an important platform for fostering international cooperation through sport diplomacy. Beyond competitive sport, the Games provide host nations with opportunities to project cultural identity, strengthen soft power, and promote indigenous sporting traditions. This study examines the role of demonstration sports as instruments of sport diplomacy, focusing on how host countries utilize indigenous games to enhance cultural visibility and international recognition. Employing a qualitative and historical-analytical research design, the study relies on secondary sources, including Commonwealth Games Federation reports, academic literature, policy documents, and selected case studies of Commonwealth Games editions.
The findings indicate that demonstration sports serve as effective mechanisms of cultural diplomacy by enabling host nations to showcase traditional sporting practices to international audiences. The inclusion of indigenous games such as Kabaddi, Sepak Takraw, Silambam, and other regional sports contributes to cultural preservation, nation branding, and intercultural engagement. The study further demonstrates that host countries strategically employ media promotion, ceremonial integration, and stakeholder participation to maximize the diplomatic impact of indigenous sports. The research concludes that demonstration sports contribute significantly to sport diplomacy by strengthening cultural identity, enhancing soft power, and promoting international understanding within the Commonwealth framework.
Sport Diplomacy, Demonstration Sports, Indigenous Games, Commonwealth Games, Cultural Diplomacy, Soft Power, Nation Branding
