Top 10 Most Popular Sports in Assam: A Thriving Sports Culture. Most popular Games of Assam.

Assam boasts a rich and diverse sports culture, blending traditional games with modern competitive sports. Athletes from the state have excelled in national and international events, keeping sports enthusiasts engaged. Let’s explore the top 10 most popular sports in Assam that define its vibrant sports scene.

1. Football: The Heartbeat of Assam

Football dominates Assam’s sports culture, with passionate fans and competitive tournaments driving its growth. The Bordoloi Trophy, one of Assam’s oldest football competitions, attracts top teams from the region. Clubs like NorthEast United FC (Indian Super League) and Oil India Limited FC actively shape the sport’s future in the state.

2. Cricket: A Growing Passion

Cricket continues to gain popularity in Assam, with local players participating in major domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati hosts IPL and international matches, increasing cricket’s appeal across the state.

3. Badminton: Producing Champions

Assamese shuttlers have made a mark in national and international tournaments. Dipankar Bhattacharjee represented India in the Olympics, inspiring a new generation of badminton players. The state frequently hosts national and regional championships, developing young talent.

4. Kabaddi: Rising Popularity

Kabaddi has gained traction in Assam, thanks to the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). Many young players from the state have joined national teams, strengthening Assam’s presence in the sport.

5. Athletics: Producing Track and Field Stars

Athletes from Assam continue to shine in track and field events. Hima Das (Dhing Express) became a global sensation with her record-breaking performances. Sprinters, long jumpers, and marathon runners from the state frequently achieve success in national and international competitions.

6. Boxing: Assam’s Power Punch

It has earned Assam national recognition, with fighters like Lovlina Borgohain winning an Olympic bronze medal and Jamuna Boro excelling in the sport. Boxing academies across the state continue to train and nurture promising talent.

7. Martial Arts: A Strong Tradition

Assamese athletes have excelled in Muay Thai, Karate, and Taekwondo, winning medals in national and international competitions. Training centers across the state prepare young fighters for high-level tournaments.

8. Archery: An Indigenous Sport Gaining Momentum

Indigenous communities in Assam have practiced archery for centuries. Competitive archery is now growing, with young Assamese archers excelling in national and international championships.

9. Wrestling: Traditional and Competitive

Wrestling thrives in Assam, with rural communities preserving traditional Kushti and modern wrestling gaining momentum. Athletes from the state actively compete in national championships, and wrestling academies continue to produce top contenders.

10. Traditional Assamese Sports: Keeping Culture Alive

Assamese festivals showcase unique traditional sports that remain widely popular:

• Dhopkhel: A traditional game similar to rugby, played during Bihu festivals.
• Tekeli Bhonga: A fun sport where players attempt to break an earthen pot while blindfolded.
• Boat Racing: A thrilling water sport, especially in riverine areas of Assam during festive celebrations.

Top 10 Most Popular Sports in Assam

Assam’s sports culture thrives with a mix of modern and traditional games, reflecting its rich heritage. Football, cricket, boxing, and indigenous sports continue to shape the region’s athletic landscape. With improved infrastructure and rising talent, Assam stands poised to make an even greater impact on India’s sports scene.

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