Bengaluru, Feb. 18 -- When Ronak, a 30-year-old businessman in Ahmedabad, moved into a new apartment complex last year, he struggled to connect with his neighbours-until he discovered pickleball. "We reserve the court for an hour every day and have a great time," he toldMint. What started as a casual game quickly became a daily ritual.

Ronak is one of thousands of Indians embracing the fast-growing sport that is quietly sweeping the country. A hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and played on a compact court, pickleball has rapidly evolved from a niche recreational activity into a booming business opportunity, drawing attention from startups, investors, and major brands alike.

Startups such as Goodland Pickleball, GoRally, an...