India will host the 4th Junior and 11th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championships in Goa in 2027, in a major boost for the traditional martial art. The announcement marks a significant moment for the sport in the country, where pencak silat has been steadily growing at the grassroots level.

The twin championships are expected to draw hundreds of athletes from across Asia to the coastal state, which has prior experience hosting international sporting events. The Indian Pencak Silat Federation has welcomed the decision, saying home advantage could help Indian athletes improve on recent performances at the continental level.

Preparations will include upgrading training infrastructure and running selection trials well in advance. The sport, which originated in Southeast Asia, combines self-defence techniques with artistic forms, and its inclusion in multi-sport events has raised its profile. Goa’s tourism infrastructure is expected to make the championships an attractive destination for participating nations. The federation said detailed schedules and venue plans would be announced closer to the event.