Football is one of the most beloved sports in India, second only to cricket. It is a part of the culture, and the passion for the game is evident in the number of football clubs and supporters across the country. However, the game is celebrated more prominently in the two communist states of Kerala and Goa and West Bengal.
There are several reasons why football is celebrated more in these states than the rest of India.
First, the game has been deeply entrenched in the culture of these states for centuries. The Portuguese established football clubs in Goa as early as the 1600s, and the game has since been an integral part of the region's culture. In Kerala, the game was brought to India in the late 19th century by British officers and soon gained popularity. West Bengal has a long history with football, tracing its roots to the 19th century.
Second, the states have a flair for the game that the rest of India lacks. They have produced some of the country's finest football players, from the legendary I.M. Vijayan to the current stars like Sunil Chhetri and Bhaichung Bhutia. The states have also produced some of the best coaches in the country, such as Subrata Bhattacharya, Bhaichung Bhutia, and Stephen Constantine. Furthermore, the states have produced some of the most successful football clubs in India, such as East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Goan.
Third, The answer lies in the fact that all three of these states are communist. Communism is a system of government in which the state owns and controls the means of production. This system of government encourages the population to be involved in activities that promote social welfare and unity, such as sports. As a result, football has become a popular sport in these states, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Finally, the states have strong football fan bases that are dedicated to the game. Football matches in Kerala and Goa are often packed with tens of thousands of fans. West Bengal also has a large and passionate fan base, with the Kolkata Derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan drawing record-breaking crowds.
All in all, football is celebrated more in Kerala, Goa, and West Bengal due to the long history of the game in the region, the flair for the game, and the passionate fan bases. It is a sport that is deeply embedded in the culture of these states and will continue to be celebrated for many years to come.
