India is a land where sports, especially cricket and football, are celebrated with unmatched passion. To host massive crowds and create electrifying atmospheres, the country has built some of the world’s largest and most iconic stadiums. From cricketing temples to footballing arenas, these venues not only showcase architectural brilliance but also stand as symbols of India’s love for sports.
In this article, we’ll explore the Biggest Stadiums of India—covering both cricket and football grounds—highlighting their capacity, history, and significance.
Cricket Stadiums in India
Cricket is more than a sport in India—it’s a religion. Naturally, the nation boasts some of the biggest and most advanced cricket stadiums in the world.
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
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Capacity: 132,000
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Opened: 1982 (renovated in 2020)
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Highlights: Known as the largest cricket stadium in the world, this ground in Ahmedabad is a marvel of modern architecture. It features four dressing rooms, LED lights on the roof, and excellent facilities for players and fans. The venue has hosted international matches, IPL finals, and major political as well as cultural events.
Eden Gardens, Kolkata
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Capacity: 66,000
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Opened: 1864
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Highlights: Often called the “Mecca of Indian Cricket,” Eden Gardens is one of the oldest and most iconic cricket grounds globally. From World Cup finals to IPL thrillers, it has witnessed countless historic matches. The roar of the Kolkata crowd adds a unique charm to this stadium.
M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
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Capacity: 50,000
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Opened: 1916
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Highlights: Fondly known as “Chepauk,” this ground is famous for its passionate fans who appreciate good cricket regardless of the team. It has hosted Test matches, ODIs, and memorable IPL games for the Chennai Super Kings.
Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
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Capacity: 41,820
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Opened: 1883
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Highlights: Formerly known as Feroz Shah Kotla, this ground is historic for witnessing Anil Kumble’s 10-wicket haul against Pakistan in 1999. It continues to host international matches and IPL fixtures.
Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
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Capacity: 33,000
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Opened: 1974
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Highlights: This stadium is etched in Indian cricket history for hosting the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final, where India lifted the trophy. Situated near the Arabian Sea, it offers a unique viewing experience.
Football Stadiums in India
While cricket dominates, football has a special place in Indian hearts, especially in states like West Bengal, Kerala, Goa, and the North-East. India has developed massive football stadiums to accommodate the sport’s growing fan base.
Salt Lake Stadium (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan), Kolkata
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Capacity: 85,000
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Opened: 1984
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Highlights: This is the largest football stadium in India and one of the biggest in the world. It has hosted FIFA U-17 World Cup matches, Indian Super League games, and legendary Kolkata derby matches between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi
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Capacity: 60,000
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Opened: 1982
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Highlights: Originally built for the Asian Games, this multi-purpose stadium has hosted football, athletics, and concerts. It was also a key venue during the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi
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Capacity: 41,000
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Opened: 1996
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Highlights: Home to Kerala Blasters FC in the ISL, this stadium is famous for its electrifying atmosphere. Fans here are some of the most passionate in India, making it a fortress for their team.
Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati
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Capacity: 35,000
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Opened: 2007
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Highlights: A major football hub in North-East India, this stadium has hosted ISL matches and international fixtures. It also serves as a venue for athletics.
Fatorda Stadium (Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium), Goa
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Capacity: 20,000
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Opened: 1989
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Highlights: Situated in Goa, this stadium has seen legendary football battles in the I-League and now in the Indian Super League. It remains a footballing hotspot in India.
Other Multi-Sport Stadiums
India also has several large stadiums that host not just cricket and football but a variety of sports and cultural events.
DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
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Capacity: 55,000
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Highlights: Primarily a cricket stadium, it has also hosted football matches and concerts. It is one of the most modern multi-sport facilities in India.
Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
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Capacity: 15,000 (expandable)
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Highlights: Known for hockey as well as athletics and football, this stadium has hosted international tournaments and is developing into a major sports hub in India.
Significance of These Stadiums
The Biggest Stadiums of India are more than just sporting venues. They are cultural landmarks where emotions, history, and sportsmanship come alive. They:
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Unite millions of fans under one roof.
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Boost local economies through tourism and events.
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Provide world-class training and facilities for athletes.
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Showcase India’s growing stature in global sports infrastructure.
Conclusion
From the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, the Biggest Stadiums of India stand as symbols of the country’s deep connection with sports. Cricket grounds echo with chants of centuries and sixes, while football stadiums vibrate with cheers for every goal.
These arenas are not just places for matches—they are temples where fans celebrate victories, endure defeats, and live unforgettable sporting moments. As India continues to invest in sports infrastructure, these stadiums will remain the beating heart of the nation’s sporting spirit.