Top 10 Most Popular Sports in India 2025

India is a land of diversity, and that spirit reflects in its love for sports. From cricket grounds packed with cheering fans to rural villages where traditional games thrive, sports in India are more than just entertainment, they are a part of identity and culture. The Indian sports market is booming, expected to reach $130 billion by 2030, thanks to government support, professional leagues, and global exposure.

In this article, we rank the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, based on fan following, participation, cultural relevance, and overall impact on the country. While cricket continues to dominate, many other sports are quickly rising and shaping the future of Indian sports.

Factors Behind the Rise of Popular Sports in India

The Most Popular Sports in India 2025 are shaped by multiple factors. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure, training facilities, and grassroots programs. Professional leagues like IPL, ISL, and Pro Kabaddi have turned sports into commercially viable industries. Media coverage and social media influence have also played a key role in increasing fan engagement.

Additionally, India’s success in international tournaments has boosted the confidence of both athletes and fans. With rising sponsorship deals and corporate investments, the sports ecosystem in India is stronger than ever. These factors combined ensure that the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 continue to grow and inspire future generations.

Here are the Top 10 Most Popular Sports in India 2025:

10. Boxing

Boxing takes the tenth spot in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. The sport has grown massively, with legends like Mary Kom and Vijender Singh inspiring a new generation. Mary Kom’s Olympic success and Vijender’s professional boxing career have made boxing a household name in India. More recently, champions like Nikhat Zareen have added to the sport’s appeal by winning global titles and keeping India’s boxing flag flying high.

The government’s investment in boxing academies and the rise of professional leagues have made boxing more accessible to the youth. In 2025, boxing stands strong among the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, with rising participation in both rural and urban areas. The sport’s discipline, strength, and international recognition continue to inspire millions of young athletes who dream of representing India on the global stage.

9. Athletics

Athletics, especially track and field events, ranks ninth in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. The sport has been gaining momentum since Neeraj Chopra’s historic gold medal in javelin at the Tokyo Olympics. His success brought a wave of enthusiasm, making athletics a serious career option for many youngsters. From school sports days to national championships, athletics forms the base of physical training across India.

Government initiatives, better training facilities, and private sponsorships have also contributed to the growth of athletics in the country. Events like running, long jump, and shot put are gaining popularity at grassroots levels. The inclusion of athletics in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 list highlights how India is slowly shifting its focus beyond cricket and building a strong future in Olympic sports.

8. Tennis

Tennis has always had a loyal fan base, and in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, it holds the eighth spot. Legends like Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza made India proud in doubles and mixed doubles competitions. Their global success introduced tennis to millions of Indians, sparking interest in both urban and semi-urban regions.

With new talent rising and tennis academies flourishing, the sport continues to inspire the younger generation. National tournaments and international exposure have helped India carve out a space in global tennis. The consistent presence of tennis among the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 proves how Indians are embracing sports that demand skill, discipline, and international competitiveness.

7. Wrestling

Wrestling, or “Kushti,” remains one of the oldest traditional sports and secures the seventh position in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. For centuries, wrestling has been part of India’s rural culture, with akharas (wrestling grounds) still being popular in villages. Wrestlers like Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, and Bajrang Punia have turned wrestling into a globally recognized sport for India.

The rise of professional tournaments like the Pro Wrestling League has given a modern platform to this ancient sport. India’s Olympic achievements in wrestling continue to inspire aspiring athletes across the country. Wrestling’s inclusion in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 highlights its deep cultural roots and its modern-day importance as a competitive sport where India excels.

6. Volleyball

Volleyball stands sixth among the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, particularly popular in schools, colleges, and rural areas. It is a sport that promotes teamwork, coordination, and agility, making it a favorite recreational activity. Both indoor and outdoor versions of volleyball have been embraced widely, with local tournaments being hosted across the country.

India’s national teams have shown strong performances at the Asian Games and other regional events, increasing its fan base. The simplicity of the game and minimal equipment required make it accessible to all. Volleyball’s strong presence in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 proves that India values not only glamorous sports but also those that encourage mass participation.

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5. Football

Football has been climbing the popularity charts and takes fifth place in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. With passionate fan bases in Kerala, West Bengal, and Goa, football has always had regional dominance. However, the Indian Super League (ISL) has given it a nationwide appeal by attracting global stars and showcasing Indian talent.

Grassroots development programs and international exposure have also contributed to the rise of football in India. Young players are increasingly being scouted for international opportunities. Football’s growing presence in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 reflects India’s evolving sports culture, where fans are looking beyond cricket and embracing global favorites.

4. Badminton

Badminton has become a powerhouse sport in India and claims the fourth position in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. Players like P.V. Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and Kidambi Srikanth have placed India on the global badminton map with their remarkable victories in international tournaments. Their success has inspired millions of youngsters to pick up a racket.

The accessibility of badminton, both in terms of infrastructure and equipment, makes it one of the most played sports in schools, colleges, and local clubs. The sport’s consistent growth ensures its spot among the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, proving that India can dominate globally in sports beyond cricket.

3. Hockey

Hockey, India’s national sport, stands proudly at third place in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. Historically, India has won multiple Olympic gold medals in hockey, with legends like Dhyan Chand cementing the country’s dominance. While the sport saw a dip in popularity for a while, recent performances have brought hockey back into the spotlight.

States like Punjab and Odisha continue to be strongholds of hockey, producing exceptional players who represent India internationally. India’s impressive runs in the FIH World Cup and Asian Games have revived interest among fans. Hockey’s presence in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 is a reminder of its glorious past and promising future.

2. Kabaddi

Kabaddi, an indigenous sport, takes the second spot in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. Known for its speed, strength, and strategy, kabaddi has been played in India for centuries. Its traditional roots make it a game close to the heart of millions, especially in rural regions.

The launch of the Pro Kabaddi League in 2014 transformed kabaddi into a mainstream sport, attracting massive viewership and sponsorships. Today, kabaddi is no longer just a rural pastime but a professional sport followed nationwide. Its inclusion in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025 shows how India’s homegrown games are achieving global recognition.

1. Cricket

Cricket remains undisputed at number one in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. The sport is more than just a game, it’s an emotion that unites the nation. From Sachin Tendulkar’s legendary centuries to MS Dhoni’s calm leadership and Virat Kohli’s aggressive dominance, cricket has produced icons who inspire across generations. The Indian Premier League (IPL) further fuels cricket’s craze, becoming one of the world’s most-watched sporting leagues.

India’s dominance in global tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup and T20 World Cup keeps cricket at the top. It has unmatched cultural significance, with millions tuning in for every match. Cricket’s firm hold over fans makes it the ultimate leader among the Most Popular Sports in India 2025, and it continues to shape the nation’s sporting identity.

Why Cricket Remains the Most Popular Sport

Despite the rise of other games, cricket holds the crown in the Most Popular Sports in India 2025. Its rich history, global recognition, and emotional connection with fans make it irreplaceable. The IPL has revolutionized cricket by blending entertainment with top-class sport, while international victories keep fans glued to the game.

Cricket’s accessibility is another reason behind its dominance. From gully cricket in every neighborhood to packed stadiums, the game belongs to everyone. In 2025, cricket is not just India’s favorite sport but also a major cultural identity, ensuring its place at the top of the Most Popular Sports in India 2025.

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