Who invented badminton?

Badminton, as a modern sport, was developed by British officers in the mid-19th century in British India. However, its origins can be traced back to ancient games played in various civilizations. Here’s a detailed timeline:

Ancient Origins:

1. Battledore and Shuttlecock:

Played in ancient Greece, China, and India.

The goal was to keep a shuttlecock (made of feathers) in the air using paddles called battledores.

2. Poona (India):

A game called “Poona” was played in India, using rackets and a shuttlecock.

British officers stationed in India learned and adapted this game.

Modern Badminton:

Invention:

The modern version of badminton was formalized in 1873 at the Duke of Beaufort’s estate in Badminton, Gloucestershire, England. The game was named after this location.

British officers brought the game from India to England and popularized it as a pastime among the elite.

First Rules:

In 1877, the Bath Badminton Club in England established the first official rules of the game.

Governing Body:

In 1934, the International Badminton Federation (IBF) (now known as the Badminton World Federation (BWF)) was founded to standardize and promote the sport globally.

While the roots of badminton lie in ancient games, the British officers in India played a crucial role in its development, and its modern form was established in England in the 19th century.