Badminton, a popular sport that has been around for centuries, has been the subject of much debate over its origin. With its roots in India, many wonder whether badminton was invented in India or somewhere else. The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem, as there is evidence that suggests that the game was created in other countries as well.
History of Badminton
The history of badminton dates back to the late 1800s when British military officers stationed in India played a game called Poona. This game was similar to badminton but was played with a wooden racquet and shuttlecock. During this time, the game had become popular among British soldiers, who then brought the game back to England.
In England, the sport of badminton was created by the Duke of Beaufort in 1873. He established the first badminton court at his home in Gloucestershire. The game was then introduced to other parts of England and eventually to the rest of the world.
Evidence that Badminton was Invented in India
There is evidence that suggests that the game of badminton originated in India. A traditional Indian game called ‘Poona’ was being played in the late 1800s and this game is thought to be the earliest form of badminton. The game was played with a wooden racquet and shuttlecock.
The Poona game was similar to badminton in that players had to hit a shuttlecock back and forth over a net. This game was very popular among British soldiers stationed in India, who then brought the game back to England.
Evidence that Badminton was Not Invented in India
Although there is evidence to suggest that badminton originated in India, there is also evidence that suggests that the game was created in other countries as well. For instance, there is evidence to suggest that a similar game was being played in Europe in the 1600s known as “Battledore and Shuttlecock.” This game was similar to badminton but was played without a net.
Conclusion
Overall, the exact origin of badminton is still debated. There is evidence to suggest that the game originated in India with the game of Poona, as well as evidence to suggest that the game originated in Europe in the 1600s. However, it is likely that the modern game of badminton was created by the Duke of Beaufort in 1873 when he established the first badminton court at his home in Gloucestershire.