Along with strong local representation, the event welcomed several outstation competitors and was marked by smooth organisation. With more than 400 registrations and a packed schedule, the championship highlighted the growing footprint of pickleball in eastern India.
Around 16 categories were in action during the tournament, with matches running as per schedule throughout the week. Players credited the organisers for timely management and seamless execution, despite the scale of the event. The strong turnout and efficient handling of fixtures underlined Kolkata’s rising status as a pickleball hub.
The city has been at the centre of pickleball’s growth in recent years, driven by a surge in participation and the steady addition of playing spaces. From newly installed courts to makeshift setups in residential apartments and housing complexes, the number of venues in Kolkata continued to rise. This expansion has also fuelled speculation about the city being considered for a franchise in the second season of the Indian Pickleball League.
Speaking to Pickleball Now, tournament organiser Manav Surana reflected on the journey of the event and its second edition. “Kolkata Pickleball Championship 2.0. This is the second time we are hosting it. We hosted it the last time as well. It was a unique experience for us last time,” he said.
Surana also highlighted the official backing the event received this year. “This year, IPA and PWR were in the mix. We also had many players travelling from out of state to compete. Big names from different cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai,” he added, pointing to the tournament being sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association and using DUPR as the official rating system.
The championship witnessed crowds during the finals of the tournament, particularly in the intermediate and open categories. Several high-quality matches unfolded, with organisers and fans alike noting the competitive standard on display. These categories were seen as key pathways for players who could go on to represent the face of the Indian pickleball circuit.
Surana also shared a lighter moment while speaking about his experience as an organiser and player. “It’s been a wonderful experience for us. Hosting this, organising this, and meeting up with tremendous players. I am a player myself, not very good though. But it’s been so amazing to meet these players, learn from them and see amazing games,” he said.
He further spoke about the atmosphere during the late-night finals, which stretched beyond midnight. “Even if the event was ending at 12 or 12.30 at night, we had a crowd of over 50 to 60 people just sitting, cheering them on, and watching the finals. That was absolutely enthralling to see. If you look at registrations, we had somewhere around 400 to 450,” Surana added.
With strong participation, engaged crowds, and growing infrastructure, the Kolkata Pickleball Championship reinforced the city’s position as a key centre in India’s expanding pickleball landscape.
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