Exploring how Indian cinema, cricket, food, and tourism are shaping global perceptions and fostering cultural connections.
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| India moves rapidly forward |
India’s influence on the global stage is no longer confined to its economic and geopolitical strength. The country’s soft power—its ability to shape international perceptions through culture, entertainment, and traditions—is rising rapidly. From Bollywood’s cinematic grandeur to the spiritual magnetism of the Maha Kumbh Mela, India’s cultural footprint is expanding across continents. India’s soft power is making waves in cinema, cricket, food, fashion, and tourism, and is already evident.
India’s soft power is not just growing—it’s thriving. The country is shaping global perceptions and fostering cultural connections. As India continues to embrace its heritage while adapting to modern influences, its soft power will only strengthen, making it an undeniable force in the global cultural landscape. India’s story is no longer confined within its borders—it’s a narrative the world is eager to embrace.
Cinema: The Global Appeal of Indian Stories
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| A scene from a 20-year-old movie depicting a love between a young boy and an old woman |
Indian classical music and dance performances are regularly featured in international festivals.
Cricket: The Sport That Unites the World
Cricket is more than just a game in India—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has transformed cricket into a global spectacle, attracting players and fans from every corner of the world. India’s dominance in international cricket, coupled with its passionate fan base, has made the sport an essential part of its soft power. The recent IPL 2025 showcased the country’s cricketing prowess, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.
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| Indian cricket rose from strength to strength, taking everyone along |
The recent IPL season, widely recognised as one of the most lucrative cricket leagues globally, has set remarkable benchmarks in terms of revenues and overall financial impact. In the 2023 edition, the league generated approximately $1.6 billion in total revenue, underscoring its position as a major player in the sports industry.
The net worth of the IPL franchises has skyrocketed, with many teams now valued at over $1.5 billion. This remarkable growth can be attributed to successful marketing strategies, a vast television audience, and digital streaming deals.
Title sponsorship plays a crucial role in the IPL’s financial ecosystem. For instance, the IPL secured a substantial title sponsorship deal worth more than $60 million, significantly boosting the league’s cash flow. Such partnerships enable franchises to invest further in player acquisitions and facilities, enhancing the overall quality of the competition. Besides, the sponsors also don't regret spending the sum, given the volume of business it brings.
Moreover, the prize money for the tournament has seen significant increases, with the winning team receiving around $3 million. This financial incentive not only heightens the competitive spirit but also attracts top talent from around the world, further solidifying the IPL's status as a premier cricketing event.
The IPL's financial landscape—from revenues and net worth to sponsorships and prize money—illustrates its influence not just in India but across the global sports arena. The tournament continues to evolve and expand, drawing in millions of viewers and fans eager to witness the excitement it brings to the game, and making India a force to be reckoned with.
Food: The Universal Love for Indian Cuisine
Indian food is a sensory delight that has captivated the taste buds of people worldwide. From butter chicken in London to masala dosa in New York, Indian cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavours and rich traditions. The rise of Indian chefs on global platforms and the popularity of cooking shows featuring Indian dishes further cement the country’s culinary influence.
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| Your favourite dosa, check the masala inside |
Indian spices and flavours influence global culinary trends, with chefs incorporating turmeric, garam masala, and cardamom into international cuisines. Cooking shows and food influencers showcase Indian recipes, further expanding its global footprint.
Tourism: The Cultural Magnetism of India
India’s tourism industry is a powerhouse of soft power, drawing millions of visitors eager to experience its rich heritage. The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, held in February 2025, was a testament to India’s cultural grandeur. With over 600 million pilgrims gathering at the sacred Triveni Sangam, it became the largest religious congregation in history. The event showcased India’s spiritual depth, attracting global attention and reinforcing its status as a cultural epicentre.
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| The biggest show on earth, the Ganges, the Yamuna and the Saraswati saw it in 2025 |
Diwali is celebrated in Times Square, London, and Sydney. Temples have been built in Islamic countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia, showcasing India's cultural vibrancy. India’s global presence is undeniable, and its cultural, economic, and political impact continues to grow.
International Yoga Day is celebrated worldwide on June 21, highlighting India's spiritual and wellness traditions. Yoga studios and retreats in California, Bali, and Europe attract millions seeking holistic well-being.
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| PM Modi Leads Yoga |
With over 25 million Indians living abroad, the diaspora plays a crucial role in promoting Indian culture.
India is a hub for IT outsourcing, with companies like Infosys and TCS shaping global tech solutions. Indian startups in Silicon Valley are revolutionising industries, from AI to fintech. India has made significant contributions to global technology across various sectors.
- The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised digital transactions, positioning India as a leader in real-time digital payments.
- UPI is now being adopted in countries like Singapore, UAE, and France, showcasing India's fintech influence.
- ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed on the Moon, making India the first country to reach the lunar south pole.
- The Gaganyaan mission aims to send Indian astronauts into space, strengthening India's position in space exploration. India's cost-effective satellite launches have attracted international collaborations, benefiting global communication and research
- India is a hub for AI research, with companies like TCS and Infosys driving innovation in machine learning and automation.
- The ReMeDi telemedicine system provides remote healthcare solutions, benefiting rural populations.
- The AUM voice prosthesis helps throat cancer patients regain speech at an affordable cost.
- India’s Digital India initiative has expanded internet access, making it the second-largest online population globally.
- The Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) has enhanced financial inclusion, allowing secure transactions for millions.
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| India’s global presence is undeniable, and its cultural, economic, and political influence continues to expand. |
