Football, or a fun sport, is a new sport that has been gaining popularity in India over the years. Whether it is due to western influence or the exploring interest of people in other sports more than Cricket, yet Football in India cannot match the competency of Cricket; it is one of the most popular sports which is loved and played across the globe with its variance where some call it Football vs soccer. However, despite the regional differences, the passion for the sport in the hearts of the people is the same. In this blog, let's delve deeply into the rise of Indian football craze in India.
History of Indian Football
The history of Indian football dates back to the 1800s, when, at one point, it was one of the most adored sports. However, India is considered the homeland of some of the oldest football clubs in the world and is also considered the world's third-oldest competition, "The Durand Cup". Yet it might be less known or less played, but it was the most enjoyed sport in the country during those days.
The game was introduced in India by British soldiers in the mid-nineteenth century. We can credit the efforts of Nagendra Prasad Sarbadhikari. Durand Cup was founded by Mortimer Durand at Shimla, India, who was India's foreign secretary during that time. However, the Durand Cup is the third oldest football competition, after the FA Cup and Scottish Cup.
Indian Super League and Football
Indian Super League has played a significant role in alleviating the position of the football game both in India and on the global stage. It is a professional association football league in India and the highest level of the Indian football league system. The Indian Super League is administered by AIFF (All India Football Federation) and also its commercial partner FSDL (Football Sports Development Limited). An average of 13 clubs contest the football league.
However, the league was founded in the year 2013 on the 21st of October to spread the football game and its interest in the country. The plan began in October 2014 with a total of eight teams. During the first three seasons in the Indian Premier League, the competition operated without official recognition from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) governing the body of the sport in Asia. Even that was structured along the same lines as the Indian Premier League, which is the country's premier Twenty20 franchise-based cricket competition.
What Made Football a More Prominent Sport in Our Country?
There are several reasons why Football has become a more prominent sport in our country. Here are a few of the things I have mentioned.
Historical Reasons
One of the major reasons for the rise of Indian Football is that after its introduction in the 19th century, it initially gained popularity in other regions of the country, like Kolkata, Goa, and Kerala. This made people more inquisitive about a game with a specialized structure and standard football rules with a unique playing strategy.
Low Cost
Another primary reason why Football has gained much significance is its affordability. Unlike games like hockey or Cricket, Football doesn't demand higher-cost equipment, and this is why it makes it accessible to a broader and larger audience and an affordable option for them. Therefore, you don't have to spend much money on this game.
Professional Leagues
The emergence of football leagues in the country, like the Indian Premier League, has expanded the reach of the football game and has brought the game to the masses with their marketing and tier-based domestic structure. These professional leagues have elevated the interest of the game among the people of the country with their unique playing strategies.
Passion
Of course, Cricket stands first in our country in terms of popularity and passion, but Football is just a step back and is growing the love and interest of the people for the game. In certain regions like Kolkata and Kerala, people have started arguing about the importance of the football sport in these regions up to the standards of Cricket.
Northeast India
It is said that the northeast region of our country is the playing hub of Football. This is due to its inherent fitness and natural talent. It is a region where Football is particularly popular, with many children playing barefoot in the villages. Hence, the area where you play also matters in what type of sport you are interested in.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Rise of Indian Football Craze in India
Why Is Football Becoming So Popular in India Now?
The popularity of the football game in India has grown due to the following reasons;
The success of the Indian Super League made both football sports recognizable and also brought international stars with better marketing strategies.
This is also due to increased coverage of the European Leagues (EPL, La Liga, UEFA Champions League) on digital platforms.
Several Indian football players like Sunil Chhetri have also equally contributed to the rise of Indian football craze.
How Does Cricket's Dominance Affect the Growth of Football in India?
Though Cricket is the most popular sport in India, Football isn't far ahead; it is slowly growing. With this rapid growth, it can become the next most popular sport. However, this is because of the rise of fantasy sports and social media, which has helped Football gain traction.
What Is the Role of the ISL in the Growth of Football in India?
By attracting global stars, the Indian Super League has contributed to the growth of Football.
Encouraging the local talent.
By improving infrastructure, where better stadiums and training facilities are mandated to uplift the status of the football game.
Even increasing media coverage through TV broadcasts and digital streaming has also led to the growth of Football in the game.
Football is a rapidly growing sport in the country. With this rapid growth, it can compete with Cricket in the not-so-distant future. I hope the blog was helpful.
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