Original Name of Badminton and Its History In Simple Words
Most people know the game as badminton. Only a few stop to ask where that name badminton actually came from.
The story is older than the sport itself. Let’s have a look at it.
The Original Name of Badminton:
Badminton was originally called Poona.
Yes. Poona.
The game was played in India during the 19th century. British army officers stationed there picked it up. They played it casually. Often in open spaces. Often for leisure.
At that time, there were no fixed rules. No official courts. Just a shuttle. Simple rackets. And competitive spirit.
Why Was It Called Poona?
The name came from the city of Pune. Earlier spelled as Poona.
Locals and officers referred to the game by the place where it was played most. That is how many games begin. Informal. Local. Unstructured.
I like imagining those early matches. No lines. No scoreboards. Just people trying to keep the shuttle in the air.
How the Name Badminton Appeared?
The name changed after the game reached England.
It was year 1873. A version of Poona was played at Badminton House in Gloucestershire. This was the home of the Duke of Beaufort.
Guests enjoyed the game. It caught attention at once. Rules started forming subsequently.
Slowly and steadily it became addiction. People began calling the game badminton. Not Poona. Not anymore.
The name stuck. The fame grew. The game touched new heights thereafter.
From Local Game to Global Sport:
Once the rules were written, the game spread fast. It was no longer a casual game for killing one’s free time.
When England organized it, clubs adopted it. Thus, international play followed.
Poona faded as a name. Badminton took its place.
But the roots stayed Indian.
Why This History Still Matters?
Knowing the original name reminds us that badminton did not start in stadiums.
It started casually. Socially. Without pressure.
That spirit still exists when friends play in parks or school grounds.
The game may have changed. The joy has not.
Final Thought:
To sum it up, the badminton was once called Poona. It was simple. It was unpolished. However, it was full of energy.
Names often change. Games evolve. But the essence remains the same. The spirit lives for generations to come.
That is what makes badminton timeless.