Badminton has become one of India’s most beloved sports, but few people know who invented it in India. This article will discuss the origin of badminton in India and the person responsible for its invention.
History of Badminton
Badminton is believed to have originated in the mid 19th century, when British soldiers stationed in India took up a game called “poona”. This game was a variation of an ancient game from India called ‘poona’ and involved hitting a shuttlecock with a racquet.
The game quickly spread throughout the British Empire and became a popular pastime among British officers stationed in India. By the end of the 19th century, badminton had become a popular sport among the British upper class, and it was being played in many British colonies.
Invention of Badminton in India
The invention of badminton in India is credited to Lt. Col. J.H.E. Hart of the British Indian Army. In 1877, Lt. Col. Hart began experimenting with variations of the ancient Indian game of ‘poona’. He set out to create a game that could be played indoors, but still retain the same rules, equipment, and objectives as the original game.
Lt. Col. Hart made several modifications to the game that would eventually become badminton. He changed the size of the court, the size of the racquet, and the height of the net. He also changed the rules of the game, making it more strategic and competitive.
By 1882, Lt. Col. Hart had perfected the game and it was being played in many parts of India. The game soon became popular among the British upper class, and was even played at the All-India Badminton Championship in 1888.
Growth of Badminton in India
As badminton spread throughout India, it became a popular sport among all classes of society. It was also adopted by the Indian military and police forces, who began using it as a training exercise.
By the early 20th century, badminton had become a popular sport in India and was being played in most cities. Badminton clubs were formed in Bengal, Bombay, and Madras. The All-India Badminton Championship was held annually, and the Indian Badminton Association was established in 1934.
Conclusion
Badminton is one of India’s most beloved sports and it is enjoyed by people of all ages. The game was invented in India by Lt. Col. J.H.E. Hart of the British Indian Army in 1877. His modifications to the ancient Indian game of ‘poona’ gave birth to the game of badminton that we know and love today. The game quickly spread throughout India, and it is now a popular sport in many cities across the country.