The torch for The World Games (TWG) 2025 Chengdu, named Zhumeng (lit: Bamboo Dream in Chinese) Photo: VCG

 
The torch for The World Games (TWG) 2025 Chengdu, named Zhumeng (lit: Bamboo Dream in Chinese, which also sounds like "chasing dreams"), was unveiled in Chengdu, Southwest China's Sichuan Province, on Thursday. The design of the torch, the first-ever in TWG's history, is inspired by the Grand Bronze Standing Figure at the Sanxingdui Ruins site in Sichuan.

"This is a milestone in the history of The World Games. A torch is not just a flame; it symbolizes passion, peace, unity, and excellence," Jose Perurena, president of the International World Games Association, told media on Thursday.

"The design of Zhumeng cleverly incorporates the torch's shape, colors, and patterns to convey the philosophy of The World Games and tell China's story," Wang Jiaxin, an official from TWG 2025 Chengdu, told the Global Times on Thursday.

According to the information provided by Wang, the Zhumeng torch design draws inspiration from the Grand Bronze Standing Figure, resembling both the towering figure and a bamboo shoot standing proudly.

"In China, bamboo symbolizes the noble qualities of humility, modesty, and strength. Its tenacity and resilience align perfectly with the spirit of unity, hard work, and health inherent in sports," Wang Deyan, a professor and head of the Department of Chinese at North China University of Technology, told the Global Times.

As home to giant pandas, Sichuan boasts abundant forests of bamboo, the favorite food of pandas. The top of the torch takes on the shape of a tender bamboo shoot with two bamboo buds stretching out, symbolizing an open and inclusive China embracing the world. The overall shape of the torch also resembles a proudly standing bamboo stalk with strong and unyielding vitality, highly aligned with the sports spirit of unity and striving, according to TWG 2025.

The Grand Bronze Standing Figure is an iconic cultural relic of the Sanxingdui civilization, one of the most important ancient Chinese cultures. The use of the figure represents the wisdom of Chinese civilization's unity in diversity and its combination with the torch perfectly blends ancient wisdom with sportsmanship.

The nozzle of the torch is modeled after the Bronze Standing Figure Wearing a Sun-shaped Crown unearthed at the Jinsha Site in Chengdu, showcasing the city's profound culture. Radiating energy like the sun, it infuses athletes participating in TWG 2025 Chengdu with inexhaustible vitality and symbolizing their spirit in seeking excellence. The Sanxingdui Ruins site and Jinsha site show the splendor of ancient Sichuan civilization.

Located at its base, a phoenix-shaped holy bird holds up the torch. It reminds people of the ancient saying, "When a holy bird soars and sings, peace reigns over the world." This not only highlights China's time-honored culture, but also embodies the noble aspiration for world peace.

Unveiled alongside the torch was the theme song "Zhumeng" (Chasing Dreams), which shares its name and symbolism with the torch. The song's lyrics were written by Tan Qiyin, who is also the author of the song "Yupan" (Jade Plate) that was performed by children during the 2025 Spring Festival Gala.

"Music is an emotional bridge that transcends language. In 'Chasing Dreams,' I aim to use the grandeur of orchestral music combined with the purity of children's voices to capture the inclusiveness of Chengdu and the passion of The World Games," Tan said.

TWG is the highest-level international multi-sport event for non-Olympic sports, with events mainly focused on non-Olympic disciplines. Chengdu is the first city in the Chinese mainland to bid for this event, which is set to be held from August 7 to August 17.