Shammi Rana: A Global Champion for Traditional Sports and Cultural Heritage

 

Shammi Rana: A Global Champion for Traditional Sports and Cultural Heritage

Shammi Rana, a fervent advocate for Traditional Sports and Games (TSG) from India, has become a central figure in elevating the global status of TSG. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he received the prestigious Presidential Award in the United States in 2020. Beyond accolades, Rana has assumed leadership roles, including serving as the Secretary-General of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG), a position he undertook during the 4th UNESCO Collective Consultation of Traditional Sports and Games.

UNESCO further acknowledged Rana's expertise by appointing him as the Rapporteur of Traditional Sports and Games during the 3rd Collective Consultation on the Safeguarding and Promotion of Traditional Sports and Games. This appointment underscores his steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting these traditional recreational activities on a global scale.

Rana's commitment to advancing TSG transcends borders. Actively engaging with officials from diverse nations, he diplomatically garnered support for TSG. Notably, his efforts in the Canadian parliament resulted in assurances of support for TSG. Collaborating with Khalil Ahmed, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee of TSG UNESCO, Rana visited South Korea, engaging in constructive discussions with Korean authorities to secure crucial backing and sponsorship for Traditional Sports and Games.

Taking his advocacy to Africa, Shammi Rana met with Kai Lawrence Mbayo, the deputy sports minister of Sierra Leone. During their interaction, Rana emphasized the significance of Traditional Sports, receiving unwavering support from the deputy minister. Additionally, he engaged with Erin Bromaghim, the Director of Olympic and Paralympic Development in Los Angeles. Proposing the inclusion of Traditional Sports and Games in the 2028 Olympics, Rana envisions placing TSG prominently on the global stage. His visionary approach aims to integrate traditional forms of recreation into the modern Olympic landscape, fostering a broader appreciation for the diverse sporting traditions that enrich our global heritage.

Mr. Shammi Rana: A Trailblazer in Traditional Sports Preservation and Cultural Heritage Advocacy

Widely recognized as a distinguished figure in the realm of traditional sports and cultural heritage, Mr. Shammi Rana is earning acclaim for his exceptional contributions. His illustrious career is characterized by passion and unwavering commitment, positioning Rana as a leading advocate for the recognition and celebration of cultural diversity through traditional sports.

Pioneering Preservation Efforts in Traditional Sports

Shammi Rana's journey in the world of traditional sports began with a vision to revive and preserve the rich tapestry of cultural heritage embedded in traditional games. His relentless efforts have played a pivotal role in rekindling interest in traditional sports and games, safeguarding them from the risk of fading into obscurity in the face of modern alternatives.

Rana's initiatives include organizing and hosting international events that showcase the diversity of traditional sports from around the globe, serving as platforms for cultural exchange and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique values inherent in traditional sports.

A Global Advocate for Cultural Exchange

Beyond local efforts, Shammi Rana has emerged as a tireless advocate for international collaboration in the realm of traditional sports. His leadership and influence extend to global forums, where he champions traditional sports as vehicles for cross-cultural communication and understanding.

Rana's commitment to fostering global connections has led to partnerships with international organizations and the establishment of initiatives ensuring the continuity of traditional sports across borders, creating bridges that connect communities through a shared love for traditional games.

Recognition and Accolades

Shammi Rana's unwavering dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades and awards for his outstanding contributions to preserving cultural heritage through traditional sports, reflecting the impact of his work on both local and global scales.

In light of his achievements, Rana continues to inspire a new generation of enthusiasts and advocates committed to safeguarding and celebrating traditional sports as an integral part of our shared human heritage.

A Vision for the Future

As Shammi Rana continues to be a guiding force in the realm of traditional sports, his vision extends to a future where traditional games are not only preserved but thrive as vibrant expressions of cultural identity. Through collaboration, education, and celebration, he envisions a world where traditional sports play an integral role in fostering global unity and understanding.

About Shammi Rana

Shammi Rana is a globally recognized advocate for traditional sports and cultural heritage. His contributions to preserving and promoting traditional games have earned him acclaim on both local and international stages. With a vision for fostering cultural exchange and understanding through traditional sports, Shammi Rana continues to be a driving force in the global movement to celebrate our diverse cultural heritage.

Mr. Shammi Rana: A Trailblazer in Traditional Sports Preservation and Cultural Heritage Advocacy

Mr. Shammi Rana: A Trailblazer in Traditional Sports Preservation and Cultural Heritage Advocacy

Renowned as a distinguished figure in the world of traditional sports and cultural heritage, Mr. Shammi Rana is gaining widespread acclaim for his exceptional contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional sports. His illustrious career is marked by passion and unwavering commitment, positioning Rana as a leading advocate for the recognition and celebration of cultural diversity through traditional sports.

Pioneering Preservation Efforts in Traditional Sports

Shammi Rana's journey in the realm of traditional sports began with a vision to revive and preserve the rich tapestry of cultural heritage embedded in traditional games. His relentless efforts have played a pivotal role in rekindling interest in traditional sports and games, safeguarding them from the risk of fading into obscurity in the face of modern alternatives.

Rana's initiatives include organizing and hosting international events that showcase the diversity of traditional sports from around the globe. These events serve as platforms for cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique values inherent in traditional sports.

A Global Advocate for Cultural Exchange

Beyond his local efforts, Shammi Rana has emerged as a tireless advocate for international collaboration in the realm of traditional sports. His leadership and influence extend to global forums, where he champions the cause of traditional sports, emphasizing their role as vehicles for cross-cultural communication and understanding.

Rana's commitment to fostering global connections has led to partnerships with international organizations and the establishment of initiatives aimed at ensuring the continuity of traditional sports across borders. His work has created bridges that connect communities through a shared love for traditional games.

Recognition and Accolades

Shammi Rana's unwavering dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades and awards for his outstanding contributions to the preservation of cultural heritage through traditional sports. These accolades reflect the impact of his work on both local and global scales.

In light of his achievements, Rana continues to inspire a new generation of enthusiasts and advocates committed to safeguarding and celebrating traditional sports as an integral part of our shared human heritage.

A Vision for the Future

As Shammi Rana continues to be a guiding force in the realm of traditional sports, his vision extends to a future where traditional games are not only preserved but thrive as vibrant expressions of cultural identity. Through collaboration, education, and celebration, he envisions a world where traditional sports play an integral role in fostering global unity and understanding.

About Shammi Rana

Shammi Rana is a globally recognized advocate for traditional sports and cultural heritage. His contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional games have earned him acclaim on both local and international stages. With a vision for fostering cultural exchange and understanding through traditional sports, Shammi Rana continues to be a driving force in the global movement to celebrate our diverse cultural heritage.

Rana receives President's Achievement Award

 

Rana receives the President's Achievement Award

posted September 20, 2021 at 06:00 pm by Manila Standard Sports

Shammi Rana, the Secretary-General of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games, has been awarded the President's Achievement Award 2020 for his devotion and commitment to conserving and promoting Traditional Sports and Games.

His contributions to this field span far and wide, including his role in promoting the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO’s) mission in TSG across the globe, through diplomacy and support for sports organizations.

What are Traditional Sports and Games?

TSGs are movements that form a part of our cultures, such as dancing, ball games, aquatic sports, camel wrestling, bullfighting, and much more. TSG is an essential part of our past and contributes to who we are as individuals and as a varied group of cultures. TSG communicates the tale of our past in a way that no other medium can; by transcending gender, generation, and individual boundaries.

As a  UNESCO  program run under United Nations, TSG protects and promotes gaming and sporting activities that are inextricably linked to culture and customs all over the world.

Shammi Rana as UNESCO'S Rapporteur

In 2017, UNESCO appointed Shammi Rana as rapporteur of the Traditional Sports and Games Ad Hoc Advisory Committee. His activities entail overseeing the UNESCO mission on TSG across the world. His collaboration with Sierra Leone to construct an administrative and research department in the country is an excellent example of his great works.

During his visit to Sierra Leone, Mr. Rana met with officials from the Ministry of Sport, members of the Africa TSG Union, and the Sierra Leone TSG Association to discuss the prospects of establishing the research and administrative secretariat, whose goal is to spread traditional sporting activities in Africa. Mr. Rana addressed this mission while in conversation with the Deputy Minister of Sports, Kai Lawrence Mbayo. He also pledged full support for Sierra Leone’s initiative in sports if the country remained committed to the cause.

Shammi Rana is also collaborating with Mr. Scott Wendel of the United States and Central American Educational and Cultural Coordination to establish the Pan American Council of TSG. If it is formed, this group will oversee and protect traditional sporting activities and culture in the United States.

Summary

With over two decades of experience as a promoter of sports and related organizations and diplomacy, Shammi Rana continues to contribute tirelessly towards enhancing the UNESCO role in TSG worldwide. His goal is to defend Traditional Sports and Games from commercialization that harms cultural legacy and fundamental values. He believes that TSG should be encouraged worldwide, particularly in areas where resources are scarce.

UNESCO TSG members meet Director of Olympic and Paralympic 2028 Development: Shammi Rana Secretary General International Council of Traditional Sports and Games

UNESCO TSG members meet Director of Olympic and Paralympic 2028 Development

Shammi Rana and Hari Osias Banaag meeting Erin Bromaghim

The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization is leaving no stone unturned in her bid to galvanize support for Traditional Sports and Games. Shammi Rana, Rapporteur of the Adhoc Advisory Committee of UNESCO TSG, as well as other members of the committee have been meeting with presidents, ministers sports to help spread the mandate of UNESCO.

Earlier in February, Turkish businessman and third child of the President of Turkey, Bilal Erdogan invited TSG committee chairman Khalil Khan, and Shammi Rana to a forum for the revival of traditional sports held in Antalya in Turkey.

At the meeting, Shammi Rana and Bilal Erdogan discussed about the hosting of the 4th Collective Consultative Meeting of Traditional Sports and Games in Turkey and ultimately the collaborative efforts towards promoting the concept of Traditional Sports and Games all over the world.

Bilal Erdogan who also is the chairman of Ethnosports Confederation – an alliance that seek to preserve and globalize institutional forms of united social and cultural space for all traditional styles of physical activity - and other members present at the forum were left impressed with the impassioned presentation from Khalil Khan who expounded on the framework and scope of UNESCO in taking the responsibility of coordinating traditional sports from various sporting institutions around the world.

At the 4th Collective Consultation Meeting of the TSG held in September 2018, several illustrious delegates were in attendance including Turkish Youth and Sports Minister Mehmet Muharrem Kasapoğlu, Gambia’s Sports Minister Hadrammeh Sidibeh, Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister Faiszer Mustapha, Kyrgyzstan’s Sports Minister Kanat Amankulov, the Ivory Coast’s Sports Minister Paulin Danho, Serbia’s Sports Minister Vanja Udovicic, Qatar’s Culture and Sports Minister Salah Ghanem Al-Majeed, Michael Mustapha Director of Sports Sierra Leone.

Bilal Erdogan reiterated that many nations around the world were joining Turkey in helping achieve the UNESCO TSG goal of including traditional sports in the daily sports culture of countries.

Shaami Rana, Hari Osias Banaag and the rest of the committee are actively ramping up the support for TSG from all around the world with vigorous aim to realize their goals within the shortest time possible.

Hari Osias Banaag is the president of Global Sikaran Federation and was also appointed as member of UNESCO TSG committee. Both he and Shammi Rana met with Erin Bromaghim who serves as the Director of Olympic and Paralympic Development in the Office of the Mayor of Los Angeles, Eric Garcetti.

As Los Angeles has been chosen as the host city for the 2028 Summer Olympics, her role is focused on realizing the city's plans to make Los Angeles more sustainable, inclusive, resilient and innovative in their preparation for the XXXIV Olympiad.

The committee met with Ms. Erin to discuss the possibilities of hosting Traditional Sports and Games within the framework of LA Olympics 2028. Rana and his team highlighted in no small detail how incorporating the TSGs will help project the image of Los Angeles and help the city host a groundbreaking, all-inclusive and innovative Olympics.

The committee has been relentless in creating a formidable rapport with eminent figures in sports and in governments and recently met with Filipino boxer Emmanuel Dapridan Pacquiao to seek his support for TSGs.

Meeting with Erin is yet another step in that direction as her work as the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Fellow affords her familiarity with United Nations’ goals while her position gives the committee a good leverage to push through their aims for the 2028 Olympics and beyond.

UNESCO TSG visited for the possibilities of organizing Traditional Sports and Games in South Korea: Shammi Rana Secretary General International Council of Traditional Sports and Games

 

Chairman Mr. Khalil Ahmed Khan and Rapporteur Mr. Shammi Rana with Mr. Lee Sand Member Parliament of Ulsan, Republic of South Korea.

UNESCO is the United Nations’ leading agency for Physical Education and Sports events. Guidance and assistance services are provided for governments, NGOs, and experts to debate the evolving challenges of physical education and sports activities. The organization also advises and assists member’s states, wishing to strengthen and elaborate on their training system in physical education. Furthermore, it offers its expertise in the implementation and designing of development programs in the domain of sport.

UNESCO provides advisory services, guidance, and assessments in related areas such as culture and social development; for example, to promote and develop traditional games and sport.

This program mainly focuses on the following diverse themes:

•              Sport for Peace and Development

•              Anti-Doping and anti-corruption

•              Women and Sport

•              Quality Physical Education among youngsters

•              International Charter for Physical Activity and Physical Education and Sport

•              Values Education through Sport activities

 In addition, UNESCO plays the role of an administrative unit for the Inter-governmental Committee for Physical Education and Sport (CIGEPS). This Committee, composed of a total of 18 elected Members States, has been created to promote international cooperation in the area of physical activity to strengthening friendship, peace understanding, and mutual respect between peoples.

Chairman Mr. Khalil Ahmed Khan and Rapporteur Mr. Shammi Rana with Assistant Secretary-General Korean National Commission for UNESCO Mr. Kim Kwi-bae

Recently UNESCO Traditional Sports and Games committee leaders visited South Korea for finding the legal possibilities of hosting 5th Collective Consultation meeting of UNESCO of Traditional Sports & Games and World UNESCO Traditional Games in South Korea.

Chairman Mr. Khalil Ahmed Khan and Rapporteur Mr. Shammi Rana with Chairman of Ulsan Metropolitan City Mr. Hwang Se-Young

Chairman of Advisory Committee of Traditional Sports and Games, UNESCO Mr. Khalil Ahmed Khan and Rapporteur Mr. Shammi Rana Advisory Committee on Traditional Sports and Games, UNESCO recently paid visit to South Korea for organizing Traditional Sports and Games in their visit they visited UNESCO Korean National office in Seoul, Korea and they had a brief meeting with Assistant Secretary-General Korean National Commission for UNESCO Mr. Kim Kwi-bae and Mr. Myoung Shim Kim Senior Program Specialist for the possible support of UNESCO project on Traditional Sports and Games.

Both leaders visit two different cities in South Korea and they were welcomed by the City Government of Gimhae and City Government of Gyeongju.

The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, meeting in Port Louis (Mauritius), has decided to engrave traditional Korean wrestling also known as Ssirum or Ssireum, on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, on the basis of a joint application by the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

Traditional Korean wrestling sport—“Ssirum” in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and “Ssireum” in the Republic of Korea—has a very deep significance for all Koreans. Fundamentally linked to the land of agriculture’s, it is both a national sport and a very popular cultural practice in Korea. Competitions are regularly organized during agricultural events or festivals linked to different the cycle of the seasons. 

UNESCO TSG members with Mr. Lee Sand Member’s Parliament of Republic of Ulsan South Korea and Mr. Lee Kee-heung President of Korean Sport & Olympic Committee

Both Leaders from UNESCO meet with Chairman of Ulsan Metropolitan City Mr. Hwang Se-Young, Mr. Lee Sand Member’s Parliament of Republic of Ulsan South Korea and Mr. Lee Kee-heung President of Korean Sport & Olympic Committee and discuss hosting an upcoming event in Ulsan, South Korea.

They also had a meeting with officials of Korea Halal Authority for the sponsorship for the Traditional Sports and Games, UNESCO.

This whole scenario is regarding ongoing development on the promotion of UNESCO concept on traditional sports and games and this is about member activities to promote TSG concept throughout the world, where are trying to get support from the different member's states of UNESCO to build a community promoting sports in Korea.

This trip to Korea by both leaders of UNESCO was for the possibilities of hosting the upcoming event of UNESCO on traditional sports and games in Korea

Promoting and Safeguarding Traditional Sports and Games (TSG) as intangible cultural heritage and sports practices is a key challenge for the future development of societies and sport.

TSG enhances the intercultural dialogue and peace, reinforce youth empowerment and promote ethical sport practices all around.

“The celebration of traditional and indigenous forms of sports and games, which derive from the roots of many different communities, is a growing future for contemporary culture.”

The establishment of a Group of Friends of UNESCO Traditional Sports and Games was then decided to team up with the Member States and join forces. Over the past few months, Member States have shown interest and support in this domain by signing the Letter of Commitment and joining the Group. Members of the Group of Friends are encouraged to take ownership of the TSG initiatives at the national level through consultations, policies, cultural events.

This may lead to the Member States’ authorization with a particular focus on advocating for the promotion and safeguarding of traditional sports and games with the best guidance and technical support from UNESCO’s Secretariat in close cooperation with the United Nations system.