The first Asian Games were originally scheduled to be held in 1950. However, due to lack of preparations by host country India, they were postponed and eventually held from March 4-11, 1951, in New Delhi.

The Games kicked-off with the basketball competition. The Philippines and Myanmar played the opening match. The honour of winning the first gold medal of the Games went to Singapore's Neo Chikok, in the men’s 1500 metres freestyle swimming.

Korea did not participate due to the Korean War.

Japan made her re-appearance in international sporting events. The country was allowed to participate on condition it joined the United Nations.