Badminton is a popular game in India, with millions of people playing it across the country. It has been a part of the Indian culture for centuries, with the first recorded game being played in the late 19th century. This article will explore the history of badminton in India, from its first recorded game to its current popularity.
The Origins of Badminton in India
The origins of badminton in India can be traced back to the late 19th century. At that time, British soldiers stationed in India were looking for a way to keep themselves entertained during their off-duty hours. They decided to create a game that resembled lawn tennis, but with a few tweaks. The game they created was called “Poona”, which was a combination of the Hindi word for “ball” and the English word “badminton”.
The game quickly gained popularity in India, and soon it spread to other parts of the world. In 1873, the first recorded game of badminton was played in India between two British officers. This marked the start of the sport’s history in India, and it quickly grew to become one of the most popular sports in the country.
The Growth of Badminton in India
The growth of badminton in India was helped by the fact that it was relatively easy to learn and play. The sport was not expensive to take part in, and it was a great way to keep fit. This made it an accessible sport for people of all ages and backgrounds.
In the early 20th century, the sport started to become more organised. The first badminton association in India was formed in 1923, and this helped to promote the game further. The first national championship was held in 1932, and this helped to further increase the popularity of the sport.
The Expansion of Badminton in India
The growth of badminton in India was further helped by the expansion of the game to other parts of the world. In 1936, India joined the International Badminton Federation, which helped to increase its international appeal. This was followed by the first international tournament in India in 1947, which was held in Bombay.
The Indian Badminton League
The modern era of badminton in India was kick-started in 2013, with the establishment of the Indian Badminton League (IBL). The league was created as a way to promote the sport in the country, and it featured some of the top players in the world. The league was a huge success, and it helped to further increase the popularity of badminton in India.
The Current Popularity of Badminton in India
Badminton has become one of the most popular sports in India, and millions of people play it across the country. It is particularly popular amongst children, as it is a fun way to get exercise and improve their hand-eye coordination. Badminton is also a popular spectator sport, with major tournaments being held across the country.
Conclusion
Badminton has been a part of the Indian culture for centuries, with the first recorded game being played in the late 19th century. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity and is now one of the most popular sports in the country. The Indian Badminton League has helped to further increase its popularity, and the game can now be seen in almost every corner of the country.