Most Popular Sports In India.

There is no official count of sports in India, which has a vast and diverse sports landscape including internationally popular sports like cricket and hockey, as well as many regional and traditional games. Popular sports include cricket, football, field hockey, badminton, and wrestling, while traditional sports like kabaddi, kho-kho, and mallakhamb are also widely played. 

In India a diverse range of sports are played, encompassing both traditional, indigenous games and globally popular modern sports. There is no single fixed number of sports played, but many are promoted by organizations like the Indian Olympic Association and the Sports Authority of India

Sport  Notable leagues / details Origins and rise in India
Cricket Most popular sport, with the high-profile Indian Premier League (IPL). Introduced during the British Raj; became a major part of Indian culture.
Field Hockey Historically the most successful Olympic sport for India. Though often considered the national sport, cricket is more widely played and watched.
Kabaddi Originated in ancient India and gained renewed popularity with the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). Traditionally popular in rural areas, it has since become a major televised sport.
Football (Soccer) Popularized through the Indian Super League (ISL) and other domestic tournaments. Well-established in states like West Bengal, Kerala, and the northeastern region.
Badminton A popular racket sport, with India having produced world-class players. Has seen its popularity soar due to the success of top athletes in international competitions.
Wrestling (Pehlwani) A traditional form of wrestling with a deep history in India. Holds strong traditional roots and has recently gained more international recognition.
Chess (Chaturanga) Originated in India and has produced a number of international grandmasters. Considered one of the world’s oldest sports of its kind.
Athletics Track and field events are gaining prominence with Indian medal winners at the international level. Includes javelin, sprints, and other categories.
Boxing Features several top international competitors from India. Popularity was boosted by the success of figures like Olympic medalist Mary Kom.
Tennis Has a long-standing history with successful doubles players and a growing fan base. Popular in urban areas, with players having achieved international success.
Other notable sports
In addition to these, many other sports are played, including:
  • Archery
  • Basketball
  • Cue sports (Billiards and Snooker)
  • Cycling
  • Equestrian
  • Fencing
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics (including Mallakhamb)
  • Handball
  • Judo
  • Kho Kho
  • Martial Arts (including Kalarippayattu and Gatka)
  • Motorsports
  • Polo
  • Shooting
  • Squash
  • Swimming
  • Table Tennis
  • Volleyball
  • Weightlifting