The mascot of the first Afro-Asian Games was Sheru. This inaugural multisport event took place in 2003 in Hyderabad, India, aiming to strengthen ties between African and Asian nations through sports and cultural exchange. Sheru, meaning “lion” in Hindi, symbolized courage, strength, and unity, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and solidarity between the two continents.

As the embodiment of the games, Sheru served as a unifying figure, representing the shared aspirations and values of participating nations. The choice of a lion as the mascot resonated deeply with both African and Asian cultures, as the lion holds significance in mythology, symbolizing power and pride.

Through Sheru, the first Afro-Asian Games celebrated diversity, fostered mutual understanding, and promoted friendship among nations. The mascot became an iconic symbol of the event, leaving a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike, as a testament to the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie that defined the games