The Pickleball Phenomenon: An Inside Look at India's Fastest-Growing Sport in 2025

The distinctive thwack-pop of a perforated plastic ball on a paddle is no longer a foreign sound in India. Across bustling urban centers like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, pickleball isn't just growing; it's weaving itself into the very fabric of how Indians are choosing to stay active, social, and competitive. As we navigate 2025, this seemingly simple paddle sport has evolved from a curious novelty into a full-blown lifestyle trend, driven by word-of-mouth, social media buzz, and an undeniable community spirit.

This isn't just a generic "it's growing" story. This is an inside view into how the pickleball revolution is unfolding on the ground, connecting people and reshaping sports culture across the nation.

How India Discovered the "Dink"

Walk onto any new pickleball court in Bengaluru today, and you'll hear a multitude of origin stories. "I saw a reel on Instagram – it looked like a chilled-out version of tennis," recounts Anya Sharma, a software engineer in Koramangala who now plays three times a week. "A quick Google search later, and I found a local group. That was it."

Many others, like Rajesh Kumar, a retired banker in South Bengaluru, discovered it through their residential societies. "Our apartment complex repurposed one of our unused badminton courts," he explains, paddle in hand. "I used to play tennis, but my knees aren't what they were. Pickleball offers all the fun with less strain. Now, my entire family plays."

The accessibility is truly key. Priced as low as ₹999 for an "access paddle," the initial investment is minimal compared to other racket sports. This low barrier to entry, coupled with easy-to-grasp rules, means people are instantly hooked. It’s not uncommon to see former badminton players, retired tennis enthusiasts, and even complete newcomers sharing a court, quickly picking up the rhythm of the game. The rapid growth of active players, from around 60,000 by late 2024 to projections nearing 1 million by 2028, isn't just about awareness; it's about seamless entry.

The "Inside View": More Than Just a Game

What truly distinguishes pickleball's surge in India is its incredibly social DNA. It’s a sport designed for connection, fostering a unique camaraderie that transcends skill levels.

• The "Dink and Drink" Vibe: Imagine a court buzzing with laughter, friendly banter, and players of all ages mixing and matching. "We have a WhatsApp group called 'Dink and Drink'," shares Priya Singh, a marketing professional. "It started with a few friends, but now it's a community of over 50 people. After our sessions, we often grab coffee or even a quick bite. It's become our weekly social ritual." This communal aspect is intentional, with many pickleball facilities offering lounge areas and refreshments to encourage post-game bonding.
• A "Networking Hotspot": In corporate hubs like Bengaluru, pickleball courts are quickly becoming informal networking grounds. "Earlier, deals were struck on the golf course or over an intense game of squash," quips Sameer Mehta, a tech entrepreneur. "Now, I've seen investors and industrialists connect over a pickleball game. It's less formal, more engaging, and incredibly fun." The smaller court size means less running and more conversation, making it perfect for both exercise and connection.
• The Inclusivity Factor: Unlike high-impact sports, pickleball's forgiving nature allows multi-generational play. It's common to see a Gen Z college student partnering with a Baby Boomer retiree against a corporate professional and a young parent. The "double-bounce rule" and the non-volley zone (the "kitchen") add strategic depth while keeping the pace manageable, ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy. The All India Pickleball Association's (AIPA) recent recognition by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports further solidifies its position as a sport for all.

From Repurposed Spaces to Dedicated Arenas

A significant driver of this explosion is the pragmatic approach to infrastructure. With over 1,200 active courts across India in early 2025 (a jump from just ~200 in early 2024), many have creatively repurposed existing spaces. "We converted one of our tennis courts into four pickleball courts," says the manager of a prominent sports club in Bengaluru. "The demand was instantaneous. We're seeing utilization rates we never saw with just tennis." This cost-effectiveness (a pickleball court can be set up for as little as ₹3-5 lakhs) makes it an attractive proposition for clubs, housing societies, and even commercial ventures, which are reportedly recovering investments in as little as three months in metros like Mumbai and Bengaluru.

However, as demand soars, challenges like limited dedicated courts and soaring hourly rental rates (up to ₹1,800/hour in prime locations) are emerging. This has led to a push for more permanent, dedicated facilities, with many new housing projects in Bengaluru now including pickleball courts as standard amenities.

Indian Pickleball on the Global Stage

The surge isn't confined to recreational play. Indian players are increasingly making their mark internationally. Just this year, at the 2025 World Pickleball Championship in Korea, athletes like Kuldip Mahajan and Vrushali Thakare secured multiple medals, showcasing the rising talent pool. Former tennis professionals, including Rohan Gajjar and Priyanka Mehta, are transitioning to pickleball, bringing their high-level experience and further professionalizing the sport. The announcement of the Indian Pickleball League (IPL) in the latter half of 2025, featuring top Indian and international players, is set to propel the sport into mainstream sports consciousness, much like its cricket namesake.

The pickleball buzz in India is far more than a fleeting fad. It’s a testament to a sport that champions inclusivity, community, and active living. From the spirited games in local apartment complexes to the professional aspirations on international courts, pickleball is redefining sports participation across India. So, if you haven't yet, grab a paddle, join a community, and experience the infectious energy of India's newest sporting obsession.

Ready to join the fastest-growing sports trend? Instasport offers a comprehensive range of pickleball paddles, balls, nets, and accessories for every level of player. Visit us online or in-store to get equipped and step onto the court!