Football has a long and rich history in India, dating back to the 1800s when British colonizers introduced the sport to the country. The first football club in India, the Calcutta Football Club, was formed in 1872, and the sport quickly gained popularity among the British and Indian communities.

The Indian Football Association was formed in 1893. In the early 1900s, football became a national obsession. The first Indian team to tour outside of the country was Mohun Bagan, who played against East Yorkshire Regiment in 1911, winning the match 2-1. This victory is considered a turning point in Indian football history and is celebrated as Mohun Bagan Day.

In the years that followed, football continued to grow in popularity, and India became a dominant force in Asian football in the 1950s and 1960s. The Indian national team won the gold medal at the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games, and they qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 1950, although they ultimately withdrew from the tournament.

In recent years, football has faced challenges in India, including a lack of investment and infrastructure, as well as competition from other popular sports such as cricket. However, the formation of the Indian Super League in 2013 has helped to reinvigorate the sport, and India has seen a resurgence in football fandom and talent.

Today, football remains an important part of Indian culture, with millions of fans and thousands of clubs across the country. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, it is sure to play a significant role in shaping the future of Indian sports.