Ahmedabad Polo Tournament Set to Spark a Polo Revival
Newz Daddy Sports Updates
Ahmedabad is set to witness a rare and graceful sporting spectacle as the Ahmedabad Polo Tournament takes place from January 2 to 4 at the Gujarat Polo Club Ground in Shela. Organised by the Gujarat Polo Club, the event is being positioned as a serious step towards reviving polo in Gujarat and restoring its place in India’s rich sporting culture. Polo, often called the “king of games”, has deep roots in India, with the modern version of the sport evolving in the country during the British era and later becoming a symbol of royal tradition and elite competition.
The three-day tournament is designed not just as a sporting contest but as a full cultural experience. Across the country, polo events have traditionally been limited to a few regions such as Rajasthan, Delhi and parts of Maharashtra. Gujarat, despite its strong sporting culture and growing equestrian interest, has not hosted a major polo tournament of this scale in recent years. This event aims to change that by giving local audiences a chance to experience the sport up close while also drawing attention from national polo followers.
The competition format has been planned to maintain excitement across all three days. Three matches will be played on January 2 and 3, followed by two matches on the final day. This structure ensures that spectators can enjoy continuous action without long gaps, which is important for a sport that is still growing its audience base in the region. The presence of six men’s teams and two women’s teams also highlights the effort to promote both traditional and modern aspects of polo.
The men’s teams taking part include Adani Archers, Jindal Panthers, KP Kings, Mayfair Polo, Arron Avatars and Burakia Barrons. These teams feature a mix of experienced Indian players and emerging talent, creating a competitive balance. The women’s teams, Apollo Aviators and Lions Den Legends, reflect the increasing participation of women in polo across India. In recent years, women’s polo has gained momentum, with more structured tournaments and greater visibility at national events.
Promoters Arpan Gupta and Sanjay Paladia have both underlined the larger vision behind the tournament. Polo in India has always carried a sense of heritage, linked to princely states and cavalry traditions. However, modern polo now focuses on professionalism, safety and wider public engagement. By hosting the tournament in Ahmedabad, a city known for its sporting enthusiasm and infrastructure, the organisers hope to make polo more accessible and relevant to younger audiences.
Jayvirsinh Gohil, founder of the Gohilwaad Polo Club and the only professional polo player from Gujarat, confirmed that more than 30 players are taking part, with 25 having international playing experience. This is significant, as exposure to international-level players raises the quality of matches and offers learning opportunities for local riders and grooms. India has a long history of producing skilled polo players, and tournaments like this help maintain competitive standards.
The list of participating players includes well-known names such as former India captain Dhruv Pal Godard, Siddhant Sharma, Simran Shergill and Syed Shamsheer Ali. Many of these players have represented India at international tournaments and are respected for their tactical understanding and horsemanship. Their presence is expected to attract serious polo followers and lend credibility to the event.
Beyond the matches, the tournament places strong emphasis on presentation and fan engagement. The opening day will feature a ceremonial parade with teams riding in formation, carrying illuminated flags. Such parades are a traditional part of polo events worldwide and help set a formal yet festive tone. The opening ceremony will also include a large dance performance and a special appearance by the Warrior Squad, known for blending martial arts with choreography. The unveiling of the trophy by actor and former Miss World Manushi Chhillar adds a touch of glamour and wider public appeal.
Entertainment has been carefully spread across all three days. Performances by V Unbeatable, known for their high-energy acrobatics, and traditional displays such as Mallakhamba reflect a balance between modern and classical Indian art forms. The use of music, lighting and controlled fireworks is aimed at creating a memorable atmosphere without overshadowing the sport itself.
The closing ceremony will bring together visual effects, awards and recognitions for players who stand out during the tournament. Such ceremonies are important in polo, as they celebrate teamwork, skill and sportsmanship rather than just final scores.
Powered by the Adani Group, the Ahmedabad Polo Tournament carries strong backing, which is crucial for sustaining an annual sporting event. With the right mix of sport, culture and community involvement, the tournament has the potential to become a regular feature on India’s polo calendar and play a key role in reviving the sport in Gujarat and western India.
