Mr. Moosa BakhshaeiMember, Advisory CommitteeInternational Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG)Islamic Republic of IranCultural Heritage Specialist | Researcher | Traditional Sports Advocate Mr. Moosa Bakhshaei is a respected Iranian expert in cultural preservation and a long-time promoter of Traditional Sports and Games (TSG) in the Islamic Republic of Iran. His work spans more than two decades in research, documentation, and community engagement, with a focus on safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of the Iranian people. Appointed as a member of the Advisory Committee of the International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG), Mr. Bakhshaei brings to the Council a wealth of knowledge in Persian traditional sports, historical practices, and regional games with roots in ancient civilizations. Champion of Iranian Traditional Sports: Mr. Bakhshaei has been instrumental in promoting Iran’s rich legacy of traditional sports, such as Zurkhaneh (Pahlevani), Koshti (traditional wrestling), and indigenous rural games passed down through generations. Research and Documentation: As a committed researcher, he has authored several academic articles and community reports on the socio-cultural value of traditional games, their evolution, and their place in modern society. Advisor and Cultural Ambassador: Mr. Bakhshaei has advised national institutions and collaborated with cultural organizations on integrating TSG into educational curricula, community programs, and international heritage platforms. As a member of the ICTSG Advisory Committee, Mr. Bakhshaei plays a pivotal role in: Guiding regional engagement in the Middle East and Persian-speaking countries on the revival and institutional support for TSG. Providing research-based insights into traditional sports and their alignment with UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage conventions. Strengthening cultural diplomacy through cross-cultural exchanges and participation in global TSG initiatives. Mr. Bakhshaei envisions a future where Traditional Sports and Games serve as living bridges between civilizations, helping to foster peace, health, and identity. Through his advisory role at ICTSG, he advocates for: Revitalizing ancient sports and linking them to youth engagement across urban and rural communities. Creating platforms for intergenerational transmission of indigenous sports knowledge. Aligning TSG initiatives with Iran’s national heritage strategy and SDG objectives. Mr. Moosa Bakhshaei is a guardian of Persian sporting traditions, and his advisory role at ICTSG honors his life’s mission to preserve and promote cultural authenticity through sport. His contribution reflects a deep belief that Traditional Sports and Games are not only historical treasures but dynamic tools for unity, education, and sustainable development. In addition to the above he has following portfolios as well: Member of the Medical and Anti-Doping Committee of the Asian Mixed Martial Arts Association (AMMA)Member of the Disciplinary Committee of United World Wrestling (UWW / Pankration–Grappling–Amateur MMA)Official Member of United World Wrestling (UWW) in the Islamic Republic of Iran, under the Pankration–Grappling–Amateur MMA sectionPresident of the Iran Pankration and Grappling AssociationSenior Advisor to the Martial Arts Community of Iran, including:– Iran Judo Federation– Iran Martial Arts Associations Federation– As well as various other national martial arts bodies Social Media: INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK
"When a sport disappears, it is like a language no longer spoken. When we revive a game, we revive a culture."
Khalil Ahmed Khan — President, ICTSG
