Star-Studded Showdown: How Celebrities are Transforming the Game of Pickleball in India

Stars Serve Up Excitement at the Indian Pickleball League: Where Sports, Glamour, and Community Unite!

The Indian Pickleball League (IPBL) 2025 has emerged as a vibrant celebration of sport and celebrity, lighting up the arenas with a blend of excitement, celebrity glamour, and the fast-growing phenomenon that is pickleball. Hosted at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, the event combined thrilling gameplay with star-studded attendance, showcasing how celebrities can elevate sports visibility and engagement. This year’s IPBL saw prominent figures from various sectors rallying behind a sport that is not only fast-paced but also accessible to a wide demographic, paving the way for its growth in India.

Kriti Kharbanda was one of the standout stars of the event, oozing enthusiasm for pickleball from the moment she stepped into the arena. She revealed her personal affinity for the sport, highlighting that she plays twice a week. Her genuine admiration for the competition was palpable as she participated in a variety of pickleball activities and presented the coveted Player of the Tie awards, creating a buzz and excitement among fans. The combination of her charm and athletic engagement injected a fresh energy into the tournament, reaffirming her status as not just an admirer of the sport but potentially a future competitor.

Similarly, Malavika Mohanan brought her own brand of elegance to the league, expressing her newfound passion for pickleball. Inspired by watching elite players compete, she eagerly joined in the festivities and took part in pre-match activities, fully embracing the spirit of the tournament. Her presence added an extra layer of allure to the IPBL as she interacted with fans and handed out awards, turning moments into memorable highlights. It was clear that her love for the game was not just limited to spectator appreciation; she was actively engaged and championing the growth of pickleball.

Nitanshi Goel radiated youthful exuberance, further enhancing the event's atmosphere. She engaged closely with the audience, making the connection between celebrity and sport appear effortless while doing so with grace. By participating in lively activities and presenting Player of the Tie awards, she showcased how stars can amplify the enjoyment of sports beyond the competitive field, drawing in fans of all ages. Her vibrant energy resonated throughout the venue, making her an integral part of the IPBL narrative.

Sonam Bajwa also embraced the opportunity to spotlight pickleball and its rapid ascent in popularity. With a passion for inclusivity, she highlighted that pickleball is accessible for various age groups, emphasizing its potential for widespread engagement. Her firsthand experience of the league included participation in dynamic activities and posing alongside the IPBL trophy, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Bajwa’s enthusiasm for the sport reflects a broader trend of celebrities advocating for new sporting initiatives that unite individuals in fun and active pursuits.

On Finals Day, Harshvardhan Rane’s grand appearance brought an additional level of star power that underscored the event's climax. Participating in various fan interactions, he was seen posing with the IPBL trophy and joining in on pickleball sessions, creating moments that fans will remember long after the final whistle. His presence emphasized the importance of celebrity involvement in sporting events, showcasing how they can inspire both the players and the viewers alike and creating a sense of unity and excitement around the tournament’s conclusion.

Nushrratt Bharuccha enriched the IPBL experience with her infectious charm as she took to the courts for the first time. Engaging in practice activities and interacting with both seasoned players and fans, her enthusiasm was palpable. Presenting Player of the Tie awards, she added to the warmth and celebratory spirit of the league, further embodying how the fusion of celebrity culture and sports can create memorable experiences.

The IPBL is not just an isolated event but represents the burgeoning landscape of pickleball in India. Launched by The Times Group and sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), the league aims to make this sport a cornerstone of India’s sporting culture. With significant backing from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the league is on a steadfast path toward creating a national framework that promotes player engagement and nurtures talent at every level. The inaugural tournament, which took place in December 2025, transformed New Delhi into an epicenter of sporting activity, bringing together countless players and spectators in a vibrant celebration.

The role of the Indian Pickleball Association is crucial to the sport's expanding reach, ensuring that players from all backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with pickleball. The association strives to create a supportive ecosystem for developing the sport through various events, establishing a framework for competitive participation that spans all age groups and skill levels. As the sport gains popularity and draws increasing attention, initiatives like the PWR (Pickleball World Ranking) system represent organized efforts to establish a competitive structure and encourage grassroots participation.

As the curtains close on the thrilling IPBL 2025, the synergy between sports, celebrities, and community involvement highlights remarkable potential for future growth. Celebrities not only amplify the charm and appeal of the league but also drive the message of inclusivity that pickleball embodies. As engagement continues to build, the hope is that such events will inspire a new generation of athletes and fans to embrace the excitement and camaraderie that pickleball offers. The Indian Pickleball League stands to not only elevate the sport but also unite individuals from all walks of life, transcending the ordinary through the extraordinary.