The enthusiasm for sports beyond cricket has been gaining strong momentum in recent years across India. Traditionally, cricket has commanded the majority of public attention and investment, yet other sports are steadily catching the interest of fans and players alike.
Kabaddi, a sport rooted deeply in Indian culture, has experienced remarkable growth, attracting a wider audience and creating new opportunities for athletes.
Alongside kabaddi, sports such as football, badminton, wrestling, and hockey are witnessing renewed vigor and recognition. This transformation reflects changes in the way sports are promoted, consumed, and appreciated in the country.
Pro Kabaddi League brings new energy and fans to the sport (Photo: Twitter)
Kabaddi’s Revival and Popularity
Kabaddi has transitioned from being a rural pastime to a professional sport drawing millions of viewers on television and online platforms. The establishment of the Pro Kabaddi League has been a pivotal moment in reshaping the sport’s image.
With teams representing various cities, the league has introduced a level of excitement, competition, and organisation that appeals to urban and younger audiences.
Television coverage and digital streaming have made it accessible beyond traditional kabaddi heartlands, spreading its popularity to metropolitan areas. Players who once struggled to find recognition now enjoy celebrity status and lucrative contracts, inspiring a new generation to take up the sport seriously.
Football’s Growing Following
Football is also expanding its footprint in India. The Indian Super League has worked hard to raise the standard of the game and bring it closer to the passion football commands in other countries.
Investments in infrastructure, youth academies, and international collaborations have helped improve the quality of play and fan engagement. Football matches now fill stadiums and command television ratings that rival cricket in certain regions.
The enthusiasm for football is especially visible among young people who see it as a global sport offering various career paths. Indian players are increasingly participating in overseas leagues, further boosting the sport’s profile at home.
Badminton’s Rise as a Premier Sport
Badminton has emerged as one of the most successful sports for India on the international stage. With players winning medals at major global competitions, it has attracted attention and government support.
The rise of badminton stars has spurred interest at grassroots levels and encouraged private sponsorships. National tournaments receive more media coverage, and coaching centres have multiplied across cities.
The compact nature of badminton makes it suitable for urban environments where space is limited, helping to maintain its popularity. Young athletes now aspire to emulate the success of badminton icons who have brought pride to the country.
Wrestling and Traditional Sports
Wrestling, historically important in India, has seen a resurgence with renewed interest in both traditional and freestyle styles. Champions emerging from rural areas receive support to train professionally and compete internationally.
Wrestling events are gaining wider broadcast coverage and fan following, helping preserve the sport’s cultural heritage. Beyond wrestling, other indigenous games like kho-kho and gilli-danda receive attention from sports bodies aiming to revive interest and preserve India’s diverse sporting traditions.
Government schemes and private initiatives encourage participation and help athletes from modest backgrounds showcase their talent.
Hockey’s Rebuilding Efforts
Hockey, once considered India’s national sport, is striving to regain its past glory. Investment in modern training facilities and international coaching staff have improved the national team’s performance. Youth programs and school competitions provide pathways for new talent to develop.
Hosting international tournaments has also brought visibility and excitement back to the sport. Hockey is benefiting from efforts to raise professionalism and attract sponsorship deals, ensuring the game remains relevant to future generations. The sport’s revival signals hope for its place on the Indian sporting stage.
Changing Media and Sponsorship Journey
The expansion of digital media and sports broadcasting has played a crucial role in popularising these sports. Live streaming, social media, and sports-specific channels provide constant coverage, making it easier for fans to follow games and players.
Kabaddi stars are now household names with big contracts (Photo: Getty Images)
Brands are recognising the marketing potential in sports beyond cricket, leading to diversified sponsorships and endorsements. This financial support enables better training facilities, higher player wages, and improved tournament organisation. As fans demand more variety and excitement, the sports ecosystem is adapting to meet these new expectations.
The Role of Government and Private Sector
Support from both government institutions and private companies has helped shape the new sports environment. National sports policies promote participation and talent development across disciplines, not just cricket. Financial grants, scholarships, and infrastructure projects provide athletes with essential resources.
Meanwhile, private leagues and corporate sponsorships bring professionalism and commercial viability. This collaboration helps athletes focus on their craft while attracting fans with engaging formats and quality competitions. The combined efforts contribute to creating a sustainable sports culture that encourages diversity and inclusion.
The impact of these developments is evident in the increasing number of young people choosing careers in sports other than cricket. With the rise of kabaddi and the growth of football, badminton, wrestling, and hockey, India is embracing a richer sporting culture.
This trend creates hope for future successes on international stages and a broader base of sports enthusiasts within the country. The ongoing support from media, sponsors, and institutions will be key in maintaining this momentum and ensuring that these sports continue to thrive alongside cricket.
