The Rise of Pickleball in India: A Conversation with Meha Shah

Pickleball has been making waves in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its growth in other parts of the world, like India, has been equally impressive. In a recent interview with Meha Shah, a 23-year-old graphic designer from Mumbai, we got a glimpse into the world of pickleball in India and how it has become a part of daily life for many.

Meha shared how she first got introduced to pickleball through friends and eventually started playing herself. Training under India’s top pickleball stars, Armaan Bhatia and Harsh Mehta, has been a transformative experience for her. She described the rigorous training schedule and the camaraderie among the players, highlighting the respect and admiration they have for their coaches.

The PWR DUPR India Masters tournament provided Meha with a platform to showcase her skills and compete at a high level. She expressed her excitement for the finals and praised the tournament’s organization and facilities. Watching Armaan and Harsh play has inspired Meha to learn new techniques and improve her game constantly.

Balancing work as a graphic designer with pickleball practice has been a challenge for Meha, but she has found a way to make it work by utilizing her lunch breaks for playing and working late nights when needed. Despite the demands of her job, Meha is determined to continue playing pickleball for as long as she can, citing the physical and mental benefits it provides.

Looking ahead, Meha sees a bright future for both herself and the sport of pickleball in India. While she is unsure where she will be in five years, she hopes to still be actively involved in the sport. As for pickleball, she believes its popularity will only continue to grow, driven by the passion and dedication of players like herself.

In conclusion, Meha Shah’s journey into the world of pickleball in India is a testament to the sport’s rising popularity and the impact it has on individuals’ lives. With dedicated players like Meha leading the way, pickleball is set to thrive in India and beyond in the years to come.