India’s sports culture is as diverse as its population, with a unique mix of traditional games and globally popular sports. According to an Ormax Media survey, conducted from November 2023 to January 2024, Indian audiences exhibit strong loyalties toward certain sports, revealing patterns that blend passion, heritage, and emerging interests. This article unveils the top 10 sports that captivate millions across urban and rural regions alike, offering insights into what keeps fans glued to their screens and stadium seats.
| Rank | Sports | Followers (in crores) | Percentage of Total Sports Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cricket | 61.2 crores | 90% |
| 2 | Football | 30.5 crores | 45% |
| 3 | Kabaddi | 28.0 crores | 41% |
| 4 | Wrestling | 16.8 crores | 24% |
| 5 | Hockey | 15.4 crores | 23% |
| 6 | Badminton | 14.5 crores | 21% |
| 7 | Athletics | 12.6 crores | 19% |
| 8 | Volleyball | 10.8 crores | 16% |
| 9 | Boxing | 10.7 crores | 16% |
| 10 | Car Racing | 9.7 crores | 14% |
What are the Top 10 Most Popular Sports in India
1. Cricket: The Undisputed Champion
No list of popular sports in India can begin without mentioning cricket. With an astounding following of 61.2 crore fans, cricket boasts a whopping 90% of the sports audience share. Indian cricket legends like Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma are household names, capturing the nation’s heart with every swing, bowl, and wicket.
Cricket’s dominance is evident in the popularity of both domestic leagues like the IPL and international tournaments. Its pervasive presence in every neighborhood field and professional stadium solidifies cricket’s top rank in Indian sports culture.
2. Football: Growing Roots in Indian Soil
Football, drawing in 30.5 crore fans, ranks second in India’s sports hierarchy. Despite the Indian national football team’s modest achievements, the sport enjoys substantial viewership. Much of this appeal is attributed to global tournaments like the English Premier League, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League, which have loyal Indian followers.
The introduction of the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2014 provided local talent a platform and furthered interest in the sport. Events like the U-17 FIFA World Cup hosted by India in 2017 also contributed to football’s expanding reach.
3. Kabaddi: Tradition Meets Modernity
Kabaddi, with its ancient roots in South Asia, commands a solid 28 crore audience, securing its place as the third most popular sport in India. Its growth is largely attributed to the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), which brought this rural favorite into the urban spotlight.
The PKL’s innovative presentation and international players have helped transform kabaddi into a competitive and widely-viewed sport. Its unique combination of agility, strength, and teamwork resonates deeply with Indian audiences, bridging generational gaps in sports preferences.
4. Wrestling: Embracing India’s Martial Legacy
With 16.8 crore followers, wrestling is a sport embedded in Indian history and culture. A staple in rural fairs and modern competitions alike, wrestling highlights traditional values of discipline and strength. The accomplishments of wrestlers like Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat on the international stage have further ignited national pride, adding to wrestling’s popularity. Modern leagues and Olympic representation have ensured wrestling remains a popular sport that resonates with a broad spectrum of fans.
5. Hockey: India’s National Sport Revisited
Once the pride of India, hockey remains a cherished sport, gathering a dedicated fan base of 15.4 crore. The men’s and women’s hockey teams’ commendable performances on the international stage have rekindled interest. India’s historical achievements, including numerous Olympic medals, have established hockey as more than just a sport; it’s a symbol of national heritage. Leagues like the Hockey India League (HIL) and international tournaments bring this fast-paced, skillful game back to the forefront of Indian sports enthusiasm.
6. Badminton: A Smash Hit Amongst the Masses
Badminton, with 14.5 crore fans, enjoys immense popularity in India, thanks to the international achievements of players like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and Kidambi Srikanth. These athletes have inspired a generation to pick up the racket, transforming badminton into one of the country’s most beloved sports. Events like the Indian Badminton League and the Olympics have boosted badminton’s visibility, securing its place in the hearts of fans across demographics.
7. Athletics: The Spirit of Individual Excellence
India’s interest in athletics is reflected in its 12.6 crore fan base. Track and field events, especially at the Olympics, inspire a sense of national pride as athletes showcase skill and endurance. With medals from the likes of Neeraj Chopra in javelin, Indian audiences have increasingly tuned into athletic competitions. Athletics continues to gain traction, representing the core values of hard work and resilience in Indian sports culture.
8. Volleyball: A Growing Team Favorite
Volleyball attracts 10.8 crore fans, marking its presence as a favorite in schoolyards and community sports circles. Its fast-paced nature and team dynamics make it a thrilling sport to watch and play. While still emerging in terms of professional leagues, volleyball’s grassroots appeal is strong, promising growth with enhanced exposure and support at competitive levels.
9. Boxing: Rising Stars in the Ring
Boxing, followed by 10.7 crore Indians, showcases the country’s growing interest in combat sports. Indian boxers like Mary Kom and Vijender Singh have sparked this interest, bringing home medals and inspiring new talent. Boxing events, from local bouts to international championships, are closely watched, reflecting an appetite for high-intensity and individualistic sports.
10. Car Racing: Speed Thrills and Fanatics
Car racing might seem like an unusual inclusion, but with 9.7 crore fans, its popularity in India is undeniable. Formula 1 events, in particular, attract a significant following, and the presence of Indian motorsports teams and drivers has bolstered interest. Although not as widely accessible as other sports, car racing’s thrilling nature and international glamour appeal to a niche yet passionate audience.
India’s top sports showcase an intricate blend of tradition, global influence, and modern innovation. From cricket’s unmatched popularity to the resurgence of kabaddi and the rise of niche sports like car racing, each sport brings something unique to India’s diverse audience. This list is a testament to the country’s evolving sports culture, one that respects its roots while embracing the global stage. As these sports continue to grow, they shape not only India’s athletic identity but also the values of perseverance and passion shared by millions of fans.
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Which is India’s Favorite Sport?
Cricket
