Sports are growing so fast in India over the last decade it’s crazy. It’s also becoming more and more accepted to have a career in sports in India. Not everyone is striving to become a doctor. It might have something to do with modern society. Traditions are less strictly followed and there is more liberty even in countries that used to be very strict in the past. India is one of those. Your parents want you to be a doctor or you’re basically ruled out of the family. Well maybe not that drastic, but almost. So then.. which sports are the biggest in India, and why? Let’s take a look.
1. Cricket
Why It’s Huge: Cricket in India is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. The game has a massive following, with fans who are incredibly passionate about their teams and favorite players. Cricket came to India during the British colonial era and has since become deeply embedded in the culture, with legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli becoming national heroes.
What Drives Its Popularity:
- Easy to Play: Cricket is easy to pick up and play, even with minimal equipment. Kids often play it in the streets with makeshift bats and balls, making it accessible to everyone.
- Media Exposure: Cricket matches, especially when India’s national team plays, are widely broadcast, turning players into household names. The Indian Premier League (IPL) mixes sport with entertainment, boosting cricket’s appeal even further.
- Sense of Unity: Cricket victories are celebrated across the country, bringing people together in a shared sense of pride.
- Sports Betting: A lot of Indians love betting on Cricket. Sites like Parimatch have absolutely exploded in growth due to this.
How to Pursue a Career in Cricket:
- Start Young: Join local cricket clubs and participate in school-level tournaments.
- Enroll in Cricket Academies: Professional training from reputed academies like the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore can make a significant difference.
- State and National Trials: Perform well in state-level competitions to get noticed for national team selections.
- Focus on Fitness: Modern cricket demands top-notch fitness, so maintaining a strong physical regime is crucial.
2. Football
Why It’s Popular: Football, or soccer, is another sport with a strong following in India. While it doesn’t get as much media attention as cricket, football still has a loyal fanbase, especially in places like West Bengal, Kerala, and Goa.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Global Influence: Football’s global popularity, especially in Europe and South America, has influenced India significantly.
- Cultural Ties: In regions like West Bengal, football is deeply woven into the local culture. The fierce rivalry between clubs like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal in Kolkata has drawn a lot of attention to the sport.
- Participation: Grassroots programs and school competitions help young players get involved early, building long-term interest in the sport.
How to Pursue a Career in Football:
- Join a Football Academy: Enroll in reputable football academies like Tata Football Academy or Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools.
- Participate in Local Leagues: Get exposure through local and state leagues, which can lead to selection in larger clubs or even the Indian Super League (ISL).
- Stay Updated on Global Trends: Following international football closely can inspire your playing style and strategy.
- Maintain Physical Fitness: Football is a physically demanding sport, so focus on endurance and strength training.
3. Badminton
Why It’s Growing: Badminton has evolved from a casual sport to one where Indian athletes shine globally. Players like P.V. Sindhu and Saina Nehwal have won international awards, making badminton increasingly popular.
What Boosts Its Popularity:
- Success on the World Stage: India’s achievements in badminton at the Olympics and World Championships have inspired many young players.
- Better Infrastructure: The rise of badminton academies and training facilities has made it easier for people to pursue the sport seriously.
- Health Benefits: Many people see badminton as a great way to stay fit, with more and more picking up the racket for both fun and competition.
How to Pursue a Career in Badminton:
- Join a Badminton Academy: Enroll in top academies like the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy for professional training.
- Compete in National Tournaments: Gain experience and exposure by competing in state and national tournaments.
- Focus on Skill Development: Work on speed, agility, and reflexes, which are critical for success in badminton.
- Seek Sponsorships: As you advance, securing sponsorships can help support your training and participation in international tournaments.
4. Kabaddi
Why It’s Growing: Kabaddi, rooted deeply in Indian tradition, has seen a revival with the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). The sport, which mixes strength, agility, and strategy, has captivated audiences, particularly in rural areas where it has always been popular.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Cultural Resonance: Many Indians have played kabaddi since childhood, especially in rural areas. The PKL has brought the sport back into the mainstream.
- Excitement Factor: The fast-paced, physical nature of kabaddi makes it thrilling to watch. The league, with its star players and team rivalries, adds to the excitement.
- Accessibility: Kabaddi doesn’t require expensive equipment, making it easy for many people across the country to play.
How to Pursue a Career in Kabaddi:
- Start Early: Join local kabaddi clubs and participate in school and college-level tournaments.
- Focus on Physical Fitness: Strength, agility, and endurance are key in kabaddi, so emphasize physical training.
- Compete in State Leagues: Perform well in state and national leagues to catch the attention of PKL scouts.
- Join a Professional Team: Once noticed, aim to be drafted by a PKL team to start your professional career.
5. Hockey
Why It’s Significant: Hockey has a special place in India’s sports history. As the national sport, hockey has brought home multiple Olympic gold medals. Although its popularity has waned, recent successes have sparked renewed interest.
What Keeps It Relevant:
- Historical Importance: India’s early dominance in hockey, particularly at the Olympics, has left a lasting legacy. Icons like Dhyan Chand are still remembered and celebrated.
- Renewed Support: Recent efforts to revive hockey, including improved facilities and training programs, have helped bring the sport back into the spotlight.
- New Competitions: The Hockey India League (HIL) has provided a platform for players to showcase their talent, further boosting the sport’s profile.
How to Pursue a Career in Hockey:
- Join a Hockey Academy: Training at specialized academies like the Chandigarh Hockey Academy can provide the necessary skills and exposure.
- Participate in National Tournaments: Competing in national-level tournaments is crucial for getting noticed by selectors.
- Maintain Physical Fitness: Hockey demands high levels of stamina and agility, so focus on developing these attributes.
- Get Scouted for HIL: Performing well in domestic leagues can lead to opportunities in the Hockey India League.
6. Wrestling
Why It’s Enduring: Wrestling, or Kushti, has a long history in India, particularly in states like Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. The sport is popular for building strength and discipline and remains widely practiced.
What Sustains Its Popularity:
- Cultural Tradition: Wrestling is deeply rooted in Indian culture, with traditional akharas (wrestling schools) still thriving today.
- International Recognition: Indian wrestlers have performed well in global competitions like the Olympics, inspiring more youth to take up the sport.
- Homegrown Heroes: Wrestlers like Sushil Kumar and Bajrang Punia have become national role models, encouraging more young people to pursue wrestling.
How to Pursue a Career in Wrestling:
- Train at an Akhara: Join a traditional wrestling school to receive foundational training.
- Compete in State and National Tournaments: Success at these levels is key to advancing in wrestling.
- Focus on Strength and Discipline: Wrestling requires rigorous physical and mental training, so discipline is critical.
- Aim for International Competitions: With dedication, aim to represent India in international events like the Commonwealth Games or the Olympics.
