Surfing, once a niche activity in India, is rapidly growing in popularity as a serious water sport. With an expansive coastline and ideal wave conditions in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Goa, India is becoming a hub for the sport. The 2024 India Surf Open, held in Kovalam, Tamil Nadu, drew attention from both national and international surfers. Among the participants, Ishaan Joshi from Goa stood out, winning the men’s title and marking a breakthrough for Indian surfers on the global stage.
Surfing in India has seen grassroots movements take off, with schools and clubs being established along the coastal regions. These schools, particularly in Varkala (Kerala) and Kovalam (Tamil Nadu), have been instrumental in teaching surfing and promoting ocean safety. Organizations like the Surfing Federation of India (SFI) have taken on a key role in formalizing the sport by organizing national competitions and ensuring that safety standards are adhered to.
While the sport is still in its developmental stages, the enthusiasm among India’s youth is unmistakable. The inclusion of surfing in the 2024 Paris Olympics also has Indian surfers eyeing the global stage, with the goal of putting India on the map as a strong contender in international competitions. Challenges, such as limited infrastructure and training facilities, remain, but with increased government interest and private investments, surfing in India is on the path to becoming a mainstream sport.