For Martial, a badminton enthusiast from Arunachal Pradesh, the ongoing BWF World Championships 2026 are more than just a sporting spectacle.
A law student currently studying at the Campus Law Centre (CLC) in New Delhi, he eventually put his racquetting journey on hold as he chose academics over sports. But even for him, a chance to watch the world’s best shuttlers on home soil is something he could not miss.
Besides the badminton journey, his perspective also offers a sneak peek into the growing footprint of the sport in Arunachal Pradesh, where grassroots competitions, state support and emerging young players are gradually strengthening the sport.
APSBA & Growing Badminton Culture In Arunachal Pradesh
The racquet sport has hit a chord with the people’s liking in recent years. According to Martial, the Arunachal State Badminton Association is helping the cause of badminton by organising local tournaments like the Dorjee Khandu State Memorial Championships. Players are picked through these district-level tournaments before representing Arunachal at the state level.
“We’re also seeing young players earn national rankings, especially in the Under-11, Under-13 and Under-15 categories. Some of my juniors, like Jumsi Riba and Tupi Gadi, are among the promising names coming through.”
There has also been support from the Badminton Association of India (BAI), with Martial pointing out that the governing body has made provisions for state associations at the World Championships. “I think they are also very supportive of the ASBA. Here also, in this tournament also, there will be reserved seats for the Association of Arunachal,” he said.
Reflecting on his experience at the newly revamped Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Martial was equally positive about the facilities and overall arrangements. “Everything has been good: the seating, washrooms, food court and merchandise stores. The food is reasonably priced; not too expensive and not too cheap. I think it’s affordable for most fans,” he said.
From stepping away from badminton after his junior years to returning to the sport as a spectator and watching Lakshya Sen in action at the renovated stadium, the World Championships have brought Martial closer to the game once again. And for him, the experience is not only about watching the game, it is also about reconnecting with his sporting roots.