When we think of the national sport of India, hockey is the name that instantly comes to mind — a game that once united the country with its Olympic glories and legendary players like Dhyan Chand. For decades, it was widely regarded as the official national sport, often taught in schools and frequently mentioned in casual conversation.
But did you know that India has never officially declared any sport as its national game? In this blog, we will explore the history behind this popular belief, the cultural impact of hockey, and how sports like cricket have redefined India’s sporting identity over the years.
What is the National Sport in India?
According to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, India does not have an official national sport. However, hockey was traditionally considered the national sport of India, especially due to its historic achievements. In response to an RTI filed by Mayuresh Agrawal, a teacher of Dhule district, the ministry writes – “India has not declared any sport as its national game”.
Hockey: The Unofficial National Sport of India
Hockey is regarded as India’s national sport, having brought the country global recognition through its dominance in the early 20th century; however, it is not officially recognized. Between 1928 and 1980, the Indian men’s hockey team won eight Olympic gold medals, highest among any other teams.
Hockey Regarded as the National Sport, Because:
- Won eight Olympic gold medals in men’s field hockey between 1928 and 1980
- Achieved an unmatched streak of six consecutive Olympic golds from 1928 to 1956
- Legendary players like Major Dhyan Chand brought global fame to Indian hockey
- The sport became a powerful symbol of national pride post-independence
- Widely played and promoted across schools, colleges, and national tournaments
- Deep-rooted emotional and cultural connection with generations of Indians
Why is There No National Game of India?
India has no national game because the government believes no single game can represent the country’s diverse sporting culture. Unlike nations where one sport dominates, India has excelled in multiple disciplines — from hockey and cricket to kabaddi, wrestling, and badminton.
In 2012, this was confirmed through an RTI response by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, which stated that India has not declared any sport as its national game, choosing instead to promote inclusive growth across all sporting arenas.
What Should Be the National Sport of India?
While none of the sports is officially declared the national game of India, hockey, kabaddi, and cricket often emerge as the top contenders. Hockey has a magnificent history, boasting multiple Olympic gold medals.
Kabaddi is deeply rooted in Indian tradition and has gained renewed popularity through the Pro Kabaddi League. Cricket, which needs no introduction, is the most popular sport in India.
Hockey
Hockey has been a big part of India’s sports history. With eight Olympic gold medals, it gave the country pride and recognition on the world stage. Legends like Dhyan Chand made hockey a symbol of excellence. It’s more than just a sport — it reflects India’s golden sporting era and national pride.
Kabaddi
Kabaddi is a sport that truly belongs to India. It started in villages and is played in almost every part of the country. It shows strength, quick thinking, and teamwork. The rise of the Pro Kabaddi League brought it back into the spotlight, making it a strong symbol of India’s traditional roots.
Cricket
Cricket is the most loved sport in India today. It brings people together like nothing else. From small towns to big cities, millions follow every match. India has won major world tournaments and produced global stars. Though it’s not Indian in origin, cricket now feels like a part of the country’s identity.
Read More:
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- Who is the Real King of Cricket: Virat Kohli or Sachin Tendulkar?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Hockey National Sport of India?
No, hockey is not the national sport of India. Many believe this is due to India’s historic success in the sport, particularly because of legendary player Major Dhyan Chand. However, the Government of India has not officially declared any sport as the national game, as it promotes equal opportunities for all sports.
Q. Is Kabaddi a National Sport of India?
No, kabaddi is not the national sport of India. Although it is one of the country’s oldest and most traditional games, it has not been officially given national status. Its growing popularity, especially through the Pro Kabaddi League, has made it widely recognized, but the government has not declared any official national sport.
Q. Which is the National Game of India Officially?
India does not have an officially declared national game. While many people assume sports like hockey or kabaddi hold that title, the Government of India has confirmed that no sport has been given official status as the national game.
Q. What is the Most Popular Sport in India?
Cricket is the most popular sport in India. As per a 2024 survey, over 612 million Indians follow cricket, making up around 90% of the country’s sports fans. The IPL alone attracts 450 million viewers each season, proving cricket’s unmatched reach and emotional connect across the nation.
