Kozhikode (Kerala): As India prepares to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a musical tribute from Malabar, Kerala, is further adding to the country’s excitement. Prof. Vasishta, a native of Kozhikode and former head of the History Department at Malabar Christian College, has composed a Hindi song to welcome this major sporting event in Ahmedabad. The song was composed and sung by his former student, Sai Giridhar. This musical creation is a loving tribute from the people of Kerala to the Commonwealth Games, which are returning to India for the second time.
Prof. Explaining the meaning of his Hindi lyrics, Vashisht said, “The song begins by describing the Games as India’s gift to the world. It’s a celebration of youth, where young people from different countries join hands. It’s a gathering of love and friendship, transcending borders and cultures. As Indians, we can all enjoy and welcome this festival of youth. Welcome to the Commonwealth Games of Peace.”
India’s Second Host: The Commonwealth Games are returning to India after a 20-year gap, following the 2010 Delhi Games. Ahmedabad, Gujarat, will be the primary host city for 2030. Athletes from 72 powerful teams in the sporting world will participate in this major event. A brief history of the Games: The first Games were held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. Athletes from 11 countries participated.
Over the years, the event’s name has changed.
1930–1950: British Empire Games
1954–1966: British Empire and Commonwealth Games
1970–1974: British Commonwealth Games
Since 1978: Commonwealth Games. The Games were not held in 1942 and 1946 due to World War II. Participants include Commonwealth of Nations member states and their territories.
Currently, 72 teams participate. Notably, the United Kingdom does not compete as a single team; instead, it fields four separate teams: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, Scotland, and Wales are the only countries to have participated in every edition since its inception. To date, 20 cities in nine countries have hosted the Commonwealth Games.
Games host cities over the years
Year City Country
1930 Hamilton Canada
1934 London England
1950 Auckland New Zealand
1966 Kingston Jamaica
1998 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
2010 Delhi India
2018 Gold Coast Australia
2022 Birmingham England
The 2026 Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland. The 2030 Games will be held in Ahmedabad, India. Australia holds the record for hosting the Commonwealth Games the most times, with five.
