India’s polo tradition comes to Hungary for La Estancia Polo Cup 2026 – interview with Ambassador Gaur

An Indian polo delegation taking part in a tournament in Hungary is being seen as a symbolic extension of the long-standing cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Hungary. In an exclusive interview, India’s ambassador to Budapest, His Excellency Shri Anshuman Gaur highlighted polo’s deep historical roots in India, tracing back to ancient traditions and regional variations such as Sagol Kangjei in Manipur, and described the sport as a living expression of the country’s equestrian heritage. Beyond competition, the participation is presented as a form of sports diplomacy, aiming to strengthen people-to-people connections, showcase shared equestrian traditions, and deepen mutual understanding between the two nations.

Daily News Hungary (DNH): What does it mean for India to have a team participating in this polo cup in Hungary? How important is polo in India, and what kind of tradition does the sport have in your country?

H.E. Shri Anshuman Gaur: We are very happy that an Indian polo team is participating in this tournament. This is another chapter in the warm, friendly and multi- faceted ties between India and Hungary. What you know as Polo- is an ancient equestrian sport of India and has had an important place in India’s cultural and martial tapestry, with roots stretching back to ancient times. The connection between Indians and horses is millennia-old, symbolized by the Ashwamedh Yagya of ancient India—a grand ritual that demonstrated imperial sovereignty, spiritual vitality, and martial prowess. India is the cradle of modern polo, evolving from the traditional game of Sagol Kangjei in Manipur. In the Indian province of Ladakh, Polo roots trace back to atleast the 17th century when the sport was introduced to the region. Known locally as Pulu or Chaughan, this “Game of Kings” has served as both an elite equestrian pursuit and a spirited, community-wide village tradition. This legacy of valor and discipline is preserved with immense pride today by the President’s Bodyguard, the premier mounted regiment of the Indian Army. Recognizing this rich history, the sport is being actively promoted under the aegis of the Government of India, which recognizes polo as a ‘Heritage Sport’ to preserve and elevate this magnificent tradition for future generations.

DNH: Do you see any connection between India’s polo heritage and Hungary’s equestrian traditions?

Gaur: Absolutely. There is a shared spirit between the legendary Hungarian Hussars and the valiant Indian Sowars (cavalrymen). Both nations possess deep-rooted equestrian cultures that revere the horse as a partner in courage and honor. In India, the horse has been central to our most celebrated martial traditions, from the legendary cavalry charges of the Rajput warriors to the brilliant mobile horse borne warfare tactics of Chhatrapati Shivaji. This tournament is a meeting of two historic “horse cultures” that value the same virtues: precision, bravery, and an unbreakable bond between rider and steed.

DNH: What message can an event like this send about relations between India and Hungary?

Gaur: This event is a vibrant celebration of the warm and historic ties between India and Hungary. Beyond the diplomatic corridors, our relationship is flourishing in tangible ways—reflected in our growing bilateral trade and the significant increase in Indian investments within Hungary. By supporting this tournament, we signal that the India-Hungary partnership is multi-dimensional. It moves beyond commerce and politics into the realm of shared passions, mutual respect, and cultural affinity, strengthening the very foundation of our bilateral relations.

DNH: How important can sports diplomacy be in bringing India and Hungary closer together? Especially now, as a new government is being formed in Hungary.

Gaur: Sports diplomacy is a powerful and unifying force. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a revolution in its sporting culture through the “Khelo India” (Let’s Play India) initiative, which champions the profound importance of sports in connecting people. As Hungary enters a new chapter with its newly formed government, our sporting ties offer a stable, enduring bridge of goodwill. Furthermore, with the finalization of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, vast new opportunities are opening up for deepening India-Hungary commercial ties. Sports provide the people-to-people warmth and trust that make such economic and strategic cooperation truly successful.

DNH: What do you hope the Indian team’s presence in Hungary will achieve, both in sporting and cultural terms?

Gaur: Our sportspeople are true diplomats on the field. We hope their presence will foster a deeper understanding of modern India—a nation that honors its past while sprinting toward the future. The Indian team brings with them an unyielding spirit of discipline and courage. This is the same indomitable valor and resolve that is characteristic of our present-day Indian Armed Forces, as was decisively displayed during Operation Sindoor, when Indian forces firmly punished the enemy for perpetrating terror acts against our nation. On the sporting field, we hope our team channels that same focus and excellence to build lasting friendships and showcase the strength and grace of the Indian character.

DNH: How important is it that international sporting events are also opportunities for cultural exchange?

Gaur: It is essential. Sportspeople have the unique ability to bring people closer together and foster deeper understanding in ways that words alone cannot. When athletes from different nations compete, they share their cultures, their values, and their traditions. International sporting events break down barriers and build a sense of global brotherhood. They turn a temporary match into a lasting memory, enriching the lives of both the players and the spectators through exposure to each other’s heritage, ultimately laying the groundwork for enduring international partnerships.

DNH: What message would you like to share with the Hungarian audience, especially those who may be discovering India’s polo culture for the first time?

Gaur: To the Hungarian audience, I say: welcome to a story of courage, speed, and heritage that began thousands of years ago. As you watch the game, you are witnessing the evolution of an ancient Indian martial art form. We invite you to discover India—not just as a rising global economic power, but as a land of immense beauty, profound traditions, and a deep love for sports. We hope that this tournament inspires you to learn more about our shared history and be the start of a deeper personal connection with Incredible India.

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