Pickleball Set to Debut at Khel Mahakumbh: Pickleball is gearing up for its grand debut at the prestigious Khel Mahakumbh in Gujarat, marking a significant milestone for the sport in India. The announcement, made by the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), reflects the organization’s dedication to the grassroots development of pickleball and its long-term vision of expanding the sport across the country.
IPA’s Vision for Growth
IPA President Suryaveer Singh Bhullar emphasized the importance of making pickleball affordable to ensure its widespread adoption across India. In a conversation during the 4th IPA Nationals at Bennett University, Bhullar stressed the necessity of grassroots development to achieve sustainability in the sport.
“For any sport to grow, you know, you need more people to play the sport, and in a country like India, it’s essential to make the sport affordable so that we can take it to the absolute grassroots levels in the country.” – (Suryaveer Singh Bhullar)
He also pointed out the IPA’s emphasis on introducing pickleball to young people and school children, recognizing that early engagement is vital for the sport’s success.
“To get any (sport to really grow, it has to start from the absolute grassroots. The young kids, the school kids, and IPA are working hard to get this. Support of the government so that we can introduce this into schools.” – (Suryaveer Singh Bhullar)
Breakthrough in Gujarat
Gujarat has become a focal point for the sport’s development, with pickleball set to make its debut at the Khel Mahakumbh. Bhullar highlighted this breakthrough, sharing that the IPA hopes this will serve as a springboard for introducing pickleball to a broader audience.
“We’ve already made a breakthrough in Gujarat and hope to introduce this in the Khel Mahakumbh next year.” – (Suryaveer Singh Bhullar)
The Khel Mahakumbh is an influential platform that will offer exposure to thousands of participants, further promoting the sport’s expansion in the region.
National Expansion Goals
While Gujarat marks an important first step, the IPA’s broader vision is to expand pickleball throughout India. Bhullar outlined the IPA’s ambition to ensure the sport reaches all corners of the country, creating opportunities for more people to play and enjoy it.
“Our aim is to take the sport to the entire India and you know, we have.” – (Suryaveer Singh Bhullar)
With a focus on grassroots programs, affordability, and government support, the IPA is positioning pickleball for long-term success in India.
News in Brief: Pickleball Set to Debut at Khel Mahakumbh
Pickleball is set to debut at the Khel Mahakumbh in Gujarat, marking a major step for the sport’s growth in India. The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) is focusing on grassroots development, affordability, and school-based programs to expand the sport nationally.