India has a population of more than 1.3 billion and possesses a rich and varied sporting culture. Long known for its excellence in sports, the country has produced many world-class athletes from different disciplines. Sports here are as varied and spirited as the significance of a traditional sport such as kabaddi, or wrestling against the backdrop of football or cricket. The following are the six most influential, well-known sports in India:

1. Cricket: The most popular sport in India is cricket, which has no rival. Cricket is an obsession with national mania. Cricket is, by far, the most followed and celebrated sport in India. Millions view the Indian Premier League (IPL) or any matches featuring the Indian national team through networks making it a culture in the country.
2. Kabaddi: This age-old Indian game became a household name in the recent past because of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) success. Kabaddi is a contact team sport of high energy requiring strength, strategy, and agility. Its simple yet thrilling game has made kabaddi a much-loved sport among the Indians.
3. Hockey: Field hockey is perhaps the oldest sport that has a history of glory in India. The country has given several winning teams, both at the Olympics and World Cups. The sport continues to be popular in India and has generated an incredible following for the national team with plenty of excitement for international matches.
4. Football: Thanks to altered fortunes in the Indian Super League and improving showings by the national team, soccer is fast gaining momentum in a country where football is growing. It is now becoming a major player in Indian sports with an expanding fan base and mounting investment into the sport.
5. Wrestling: Wrestling is one of the most traditional sports of India with a rich cultural heritage. India has produced numerous richest wrestlers including Olympic medalists Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, and more. Wrestling continues to be very popular in India, especially in rural parts.
6. Tennis: Tennis is one of the emerging sports in India, due to the fame and victories accruing from players like Sania Mirza, Leander Paes, and Rohan Bopanna. With an increasing number of tennis academies and tournaments, tennis is undoubtedly becoming more popular among Indian sports fans.

All six have millions of Indian hearts and will continue to do so in the years to come. Therefore, the future of Indian sports beholds an interesting scenario, as these sports would strive to inspire budding athletes and their fans to stay ahead.