Polo: A Timeless Tradition and the Sport of Kings

Often hailed as “the sport of kings,” polo has a rich historical significance that has transformed it from an elite pastime into a prestigious spectacle. Its long-standing tradition and deep connection with nobility have elevated the game to iconic status, with sponsorships and tournaments held in the world’s most renowned venues. Polo’s origins date from the 6th century BC to the 1st century AD, beginning as an equestrian sport among nomadic Iranian and Turkic peoples. Yet in India, during the Mughal era, polo flourished and became the national sport, captivating emperors and nobles alike.

India holds the distinction of being the birthplace of modern polo. The contemporary version of the sport evolved from *Sagol Kangjei*, an ancient Manipuri game. It was known locally as *Pulu*, the word for the wooden ball used in play. Over time, the sport spread westward and eventually anglicised into the form we recognise today. Polo’s rich history stretches back even further to an ancient version of the game still played in parts of Central Asia, known as *buzkashi* or kokpar, highlighting the sport’s deep cultural roots.

Often referred to as “the king of games and the game of kings,” polo is a sport that requires a rare combination of athleticism, horsemanship, and strategy. The connection between rider and horse is at the heart of the game, and this unique bond has allowed polo to endure for centuries, maintaining its regal allure.

Modern polo as we know it first gained traction in India, particularly during the British Raj. In 1859, the first European polo club was established at Silchar, Assam, marking the start of the sport’s colonial legacy. British soldiers stationed in India were captivated by the game, and the Calcutta Polo Club, formed in the early 1860s, became a hub for the growing polo scene in India. This introduction to polo spurred a wider adoption of the game by British officers and tea planters, particularly after a chance encounter in Manipur where British Lieutenant Joe Sherer stumbled upon local princes playing the game on horseback. Sherer’s fascination with what he described as “hockey on horseback” led to the popularisation of the sport among British officers, further embedding polo in India’s sporting culture.

From India, polo began its global journey. By the late 19th century, the game had spread across the British Empire and beyond. Polo clubs were established in England (1869), Ireland (1870), Argentina (1872), and Australia (1874), ensuring that polo became a global sport. Today, the game is played in over 77 countries, including significant polo hubs such as Argentina, the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. The World Polo Championships, held every three years by the Federation of International Polo, takes place in Argentina, which remains the world’s most significant venue for the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.

While polo retains its association with royalty and the military, its appeal has broadened in modern India. Increasing corporate sponsorship and the rise of riding clubs have opened the sport to a new generation of enthusiasts, no longer restricted to aristocrats and cavalry officers. The sport’s allure is perhaps best captured in Shandur, Pakistan, home to the world’s highest polo field. A plaque at this breathtaking location reads: “Let other people play at other things; the king of games is still the game of kings.” This inclusivity is a testament to the sport’s evolution and its ability to attract a diverse range of participants.

This spirit of polo is alive and well in India, with Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’, playing a central role in preserving and promoting the game. The recent 2022 Leela Maharaja Sawai Man Singh Polo Cup, held in Jaipur, brought together royals and modern-day polo players in a thrilling match. Captained by His Highness Sawai Padmanabh Singh, Maharaja of Jaipur, the Leela Polo Team fought valiantly, showcasing the athleticism and power of both horse and rider in a spectacle that ended in a 2-2 draw.

The young Maharaja of Jaipur, Padmanabh Singh, continues to reinvigorate polo in India. As the captain of the Indian team at the World Cup play-offs in South Africa, Singh has played a crucial role in modernising the sport. Despite the game’s many challenges, including dangerous playing conditions and the costly investment in horses, Singh is committed to making polo accessible to a broader audience, especially in Jaipur, where the game is deeply rooted in tradition. His dedication and leadership are an inspiration to all those who are passionate about the sport.

His Highness’ journey began at 12 when he first encountered polo at Mayo College in Ajmer. With its long history of nurturing polo talent, the school has produced many of the sport’s most accomplished players, particularly from princely families. The Maharaja’s personal connection to the sport and his leadership have helped ensure polo’s continued relevance in a changing India.

Women have also made strides in polo in recent years, competing alongside men in this traditionally male-dominated sport. In India, women’s polo has gained momentum, with teams from Manipur regularly competing against counterparts from the US Polo Association. One such player is Avshreya Pratap Singh Rudy, a Delhi-based advocate who began her polo career at a young age. Despite the many challenges female players face, including the lack of facilities and support, women like Rudy are pushing the boundaries of the sport, proving that polo can be empowering and inclusive.

Jaipur remains at the heart of Indian polo. Pink City is well-positioned to become a global polo hub with its rich history, world-class grounds, and a growing roster of young players. Padmanabh Singh’s continued involvement in the sport and the passion of local players and patrons ensure that the polo tradition will endure in India for generations to come.

In Jaipur, polo is not just a game but a way of life. The sport’s history, elegance, and excitement continue to captivate players and spectators, ensuring that polo remains, as it always has been, the sport of kings.

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