Badminton, a popular racquet sport played by millions around the world, has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century.
Surprisingly, this sport didn’t always bear the name badminton – it was initially referred to as “Poona”.
The story of how the sport transitioned from Poona to Badminton is a fascinating journey through time.
The Birth of Poona
The origins of badminton can be traced back to British India during the mid-19th century. While the exact date is somewhat unclear, it’s generally accepted that badminton began as a leisurely activity among British army officers stationed in India.
The sport was played with a shuttlecock, akin to the modern-day badminton birdie, and rackets that resembled today’s badminton racquets.
The game earned the moniker “Poona” during this period. This name was derived from the town of Poona, which is present-day Pune in Maharashtra, India.
British army officers stationed in Poona would enjoy playing this early version of badminton in their leisure time, hence the name.
The Transformation into Badminton
The story takes a significant turn when badminton made its way back to England. In 1873, the sport garnered the attention of the Duke of Beaufort, who was a guest at the Badminton House, his Gloucestershire estate.
The Duke was taken with the game and introduced it to his friends and guests, who enthusiastically embraced it.
The Badminton House soon became the epicenter of the sport, and as its popularity grew, it underwent several crucial modifications.
The most notable change was the introduction of a new set of rules, largely standardized by the Bath Badminton Club, which was founded in 1877. These rules refined the game and distinguished it from its early “Poona” version.
With the game becoming more organised and gaining broader recognition, it was time for a new name that would reflect its English roots and the influence of the Badminton House.
The name badminton was officially adopted in 1877, honoring the prestigious estate where it had flourished.
The Bath Badminton Club played a pivotal role in codifying the sport’s rules and popularising the name “badminton.” The club’s efforts laid the foundation for the modern game we know today.
