7 Most Popular Sports In India

India is one of the most populous countries globally, with over 1.3 billion people, and it is also home to a plethora of different cultures and traditions. As such, it should come as no surprise that there are a wide variety of popular sports in India.

When moving on the Indian streets, people can play cricket everywhere. It is considered a religion in India.  You may think Cricket is the only popular sport in India, but that’s not the case. Here is the list of 7 most popular sports in India: Keep reading as you check on the Kentucky Derby odds to make your bets.

1. Cricket

Cricket is by far the most popular sport in India, and it is played almost everywhere in the country. It is estimated that there are over a billion cricket fans in India, which is more than any other country globally. Cricket is so popular in India that it is often referred to as the “national game.”

The cricket game in India is administered by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the richest cricket board in the world. BCCI is responsible for organizing and regulating all aspects of the game in India, including the domestic competitions, the Indian Premier League (IPL), and the national team.

Fans from all walks of life come to watch cricket matches in India, and the sport has a huge following among all age groups.

2. Football

Although cricket is the most popular sport in India, football is also a very popular sport, particularly in the northeastern states of India, such as West Bengal, Assam, and Manipur.

Football is also popular in the southern state of Kerala and the western state of Goa.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is the governing body for football in India, and it organizes the national football team as well as the I-League, which is the top professional football league in the country.

Indians love football because of the passion and excitement that it generates. Football matches in India are often played with great fervor, and there is a lot of support for the national team and the various clubs.

3. Field Hockey

Field hockey is the national game of India, and it is also one of the most popular sports in the country. Hockey is particularly popular in Punjab, Maharashtra, and Kerala.

The Indian men’s national hockey team is one of the most successful teams globally, with 8 Olympic gold medals. The women’s national team has also been very successful, winning the Gold Medal at Asian Games.

4. Tennis

Tennis is a popular sport in India, and it is played by people of all ages. The game is particularly popular among the urban middle-class population.

India has produced world-class tennis players such as Vijay Amritraj, Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza. India has also won the Davis Cup (men’s tennis world cup) twice and the Fed Cup (women’s tennis world cup).

Tennis may not be as popular as cricket or football in India, but it does have a significant following.

5. Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a traditional sport that originated in India, and it is particularly popular in the rural areas of the country. Kabaddi is also the national game of Bangladesh.

The game is played between two teams of seven players each, and the objective is to score points by raiding the opponents’ half and touching as many players as possible. Kabaddi is a very popular sport in India, and it is played extensively in rural areas.

6. Badminton

Badminton is another popular sport in India, and it is played by people of all ages, particularly in urban areas. India has produced world-class badminton players such as Prakash Padukone, Pullela Gopichand, and Saina Nehwal.

Badminton is a popular sport in India, and it is played extensively in urban areas. Mostly, you'll find Badminton played indoors in Badminton clubs, but you can also find people playing in their backyards and parks.

7. Chess

Chess is a popular board game that originated in India, and it is very popular among all age groups. Chess is considered a game of intellect, and it requires strategic thinking.

India has produced some world-class chess players, such as Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion. Chess is popular in urban areas, and it is also played extensively in schools.

Verdict

Well, now you know that cricket is not the only popular sport in India. There are many other popular sports in India, such as football, field hockey, tennis, kabaddi, badminton, and chess. So, if you’re looking for a change from cricket, you can try out any of these other popular sports.

You may even bet on some of these sports if you’re feeling lucky. Who knows, you might just win some money!

All the best!