The debate around badminton being India's second-best sport after cricket has gained serious momentum in recent years. With P.V. Sindhu's Olympic medals, Saina Nehwal's trailblazing success, and the explosive rise of players like Lakshya Sen and H.S. Prannoy, badminton has undeniably captured the nation's imagination. The sport's accessibility – requiring minimal equipment and space – has made it popular across urban and semi-urban India, from housing society courts to professional academies.
Those supporting this view point to badminton's consistent medal hauls at international tournaments, government backing through schemes like Target Olympic Podium, and the growing Premier Badminton League's popularity. The sport has delivered when it matters most – Olympics, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games – giving Indians heroes to celebrate beyond the cricket field.
However, skeptics argue that hockey, being our national sport with eight Olympic golds, deserves the second spot historically. Others champion kabaddi for its cultural roots and the Pro Kabaddi League's massive viewership, or point to wrestling's recent Olympic success with medals from Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, and Bajrang Punia. Football enthusiasts highlight the ISL's growth and the sport's passionate fanbase in states like Kerala, Goa, and the Northeast.
While cricket remains unchallenged at the top, badminton's case for second place is compelling, though not without worthy challengers that reflect India's diverse sporting landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes badminton so popular in India compared to other sports?
Badminton's popularity stems from its accessibility – it requires minimal space and equipment, making it playable in housing societies and small courts across India. The consistent success of Indian players like P.V. Sindhu and Saina Nehwal on the world stage has also inspired a generation of young players and increased media coverage.
How does badminton compare to hockey in terms of India's sporting achievements?
While hockey has a richer historical legacy with eight Olympic gold medals and is India's national sport, badminton has shown more recent momentum with Olympic medals and consistent world championship performances. Hockey's golden era was decades ago, whereas badminton's peak success has come in the last 10-15 years, making it more relevant to current sports fans.
Could any other sport challenge badminton for the second position after cricket?
Wrestling has strong Olympic credentials with recent medals from Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt, while kabaddi boasts deep cultural roots and the hugely successful Pro Kabaddi League. Football also has passionate regional followings and growing commercial leagues, making the competition for second place quite intense among multiple sports.
