The solemn opening ceremony of the first youth Delphic Games, organized for the member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, took place in Bishkek. The event was held at the Toktogul Satylganov National Philharmonic and was remembered for its vibrant and friendly atmosphere.
High-profile guests attended the ceremony, including the Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Edil Baisalov, the Mayor of Bishkek, ambassadors from the SCO member countries, and representatives from cultural circles. About 700 people are participating in this unique event: 400 participants from Kyrgyzstan and 300 international delegates from countries such as Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, China, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus, and Russia. Guests enjoyed performances by the best musical and dance groups in the country, including winners of previous Delphic Games.
Particular attention was given to the address by the President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, which was read by Edil Baisalov. The President emphasized that such events contribute to strengthening cultural ties and discovering new talents among the youth of the SCO countries, as well as positioning Kyrgyzstan as a cultural center of the region.
According to Baisalov, holding the Delphic Games in Bishkek demonstrates the important role of the country in humanitarian cooperation and intercultural dialogue. He noted that these Games should serve as a platform for preserving and popularizing national cultures, as well as for showcasing the talents of the younger generation.
The Mayor of Bishkek, Aibek Junushaliev, also highlighted the significance of this international event, emphasizing that the Delphic Games create a space for talent development and strengthen friendships among different peoples. He expressed confidence that the Games would be an important step towards strengthening humanitarian ties and expanding cultural interaction among the youth of the SCO countries.
This is the first time the Games are being held under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The first youth Delphic Games are not only a competition but also a cultural forum that is expected to strengthen international ties and friendly relations among participants.
The competitions will take place until March 28 and include eight categories: piano, visual arts, vocal arts, folk dances, DJing, performance on folk instruments, and decorative and applied arts.
The Delphic Games hold a position in the world of creativity as significant as the Olympic Games in sports. This unique project develops a global system for discovering and supporting young talents and promotes self-realization among youth in various fields of art. To date, more than 100 different Delphic Games have been held worldwide, underscoring their importance in international relations.
Historical background on the Delphic Games
The Delphic Games are competitions in the fields of artistic, applied, and scientific creativity. Their roots trace back to Ancient Greece, where the Pythian Games were held in honor of the god Apollo. These games first took place in 582 BC and were conducted in the year preceding the Olympic Games. The latter were banned in 394 AD by the last ruler of the Roman Empire, Theodosius I.
The revival of artistic competitions was initiated by French Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who introduced them at the V Summer Olympics. These contests were held until 1948 but were subsequently discontinued due to financial issues. The restoration of the Delphic Games began in the 1970s in the USSR and was carried out within the framework of youth creative programs.
