Naveen Jindal Hopes for Polo's Olympic Return in India
Jindal Panther owner Naveen Jindal envisions polo returning to the Olympics when India hosts the Games, highlighting the sport's deep Indian roots.
Naveen Jindal, the owner of the Jindal Panther polo team, has expressed a strong vision for the future of the sport, hoping to see polo reinstated in the Olympic programme when India hosts the Games. Speaking after the Jindal Panther Cup final in Noida on Sunday, Jindal emphasized India's deep historical connection to the sport and the modern capabilities that could make its Olympic comeback a reality.
A Vision for the 2036 Olympics
With India having formally submitted a bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games—with Ahmedabad proposed as the central hub—Jindal believes the timing is right for a sporting revival. Polo was last featured in the Olympic Games during the 1936 Berlin Olympics, but Jindal argues that the logistical hurdles of the past have been cleared.
"Till 1936, polo used to be played in the Olympics. And if we look at the facilities compared to that time, today the facilities are much better," Jindal remarked. He noted that advancements in transportation, specifically the ability to move horses easily via large aircraft, have transformed the feasibility of international polo competitions.
India's Gift to the World
Jindal highlighted that the modern version of polo actually has its origins in the hills of North-East India, where British officers discovered the game in the 1850s. The sport eventually spread to England, the United States, and Argentina, but its roots remain firmly planted in Indian soil.
The history of the sport in India is rich, featuring the world's first polo club founded in Silchar, Assam, in 1859, and the Calcutta Polo Club in 1862. However, Jindal also voiced concerns regarding the preservation of historic venues. He specifically mentioned the Jaipur Polo Ground, a 135-year-old historic venue that was recently taken over by government officials following an eviction notice.
"Polo is India's gift to the world. The modern Polo was discovered in India. And in India, it is our responsibility to improve our games," Jindal said, urging the government to provide adequate facilities to ensure the sport continues to thrive.
Jindal Panther Cup: Achievers Secure Victory
On the field, the action was just as intense. In the final of the Jindal Panther Cup held at the Jindal Polo Estate, the Vimal Arion Achievers secured a 9-6 victory over the Jindal Panther. The match was defined by an early lead established by the Achievers that the Panther team struggled to overcome.
Key highlights of the match included:
- Rising Star: 17-year-old Savir Godara played a pivotal role for the Achievers, contributing significantly to their winning momentum.
- Early Dominance: Dhruvpal Godara opened the scoring for the Achievers in the first chukker, setting the tone for the match.
- Panther Response: Despite goals from Naveen Jindal and Gaurav Sehgal, the Jindal Panther team could not bridge the gap.
- Winning Effort: The Achievers maintained pressure through Savir and Chris Jake to hold onto their three-goal advantage.
Following the match, Jindal praised the performance of the young Savir Godara, noting that the teenager is currently part of India's preparations for the upcoming Polo World Cup and is expected to be included in the squad.