Explanation

Originally it was a training game for cavalry units for the King’s guards and other elite troups. It was introduced into South Asia in the 13th century. The English word ‘polo’ is in fact, a Balti word meaning ‘ball’. The British Political Agent, Major Cobb, who was fond of polo, introduced and played the game for the first time in Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral. The origins of the Shandur Polo Tournament can be traced back to the British Raj era in the early 20th century. During this time, the British introduced polo to the region and organized a tournament in the Shandur Pass, which was then a popular route for British officers traveling between Chitral and Gilgit.