Indian Open of Surfing 2026: A Crucial Event for Asian Games Aspirants

The Indian Open of Surfing 2026 is set to take place from May 29 to May 31 at Blue Bay Tannirbhavi Eco Beach in Mangaluru, Karnataka. This event is crucial for surfers vying for spots on Team India for the upcoming Asian Games. With approximately 80 athletes expected to participate, the competition will feature various categories, including Open and Under-18. Key contenders like Ramesh Budihal, Sivaraj Babu, and Kamali P are among those to watch as they aim to secure their positions. The event not only highlights the growing surfing scene in India but also serves as a platform for national pride as surfers compete for a chance to represent the country on an international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 25, 2026, 15:54 IST

Indian Open of Surfing 2026 Set for Karnataka

The Indian surfing community is gearing up for the seventh edition of the Indian Open of Surfing 2026, scheduled from May 29 to May 31 at the picturesque Blue Bay Tannirbhavi Eco Beach in Mangaluru, Karnataka. This event is a significant stop in the national surfing series.

As surfing prepares for its inaugural appearance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games later this year, the Indian Open is pivotal in the selection process for Team India. Several top surfers are eager to enhance their rankings and secure their spots for the continental event. India has already clinched two quota spots in both the Men's and Women's Open Shortboard categories for the Asian Games, raising the stakes for this year's domestic season. The Indian Open serves as one of the last major competitions before the Asian Games, making it crucial for selection discussions.

Event Details and Participation

Organized by the Mantra Surf Club and Surfing Swami Foundation under the Surfing Federation of India (SFI), this championship has become a highlight on the national calendar. The Indian Open of Surfing 2026 is the second event in this year's National Championship Series, following the Little Andaman Pro 2026 held in April. Approximately 80 surfers from states including Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa are expected to compete in Surfing and Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) across various categories. This year, Under-14 categories have been introduced to promote grassroots participation.

Dakshina Kannada: A Surfing Hub

Over the years, the Indian Open of Surfing has significantly contributed to establishing Dakshina Kannada as a notable destination for surfing and ocean sports. The Blue Bay Tannirbhavi Eco Beach is recognized as one of India's top surfing locations.

Key Contenders for Asian Games Selection

As the competition for Asian Games selection heats up, attention will focus on a select group of surfers vying for spots on Team India.

Ramesh Budihal

Ramesh Budihal is one of India's most accomplished surfers, entering the championship after a remarkable performance at the Asian Surfing Championships 2025, where he became the first Indian to reach the Open Men's final and won a bronze medal. His success has made him a prominent figure in Indian surfing.

Known for his calm demeanor and skillful wave control, Ramesh has consistently excelled in domestic competitions, making him a strong contender for Asian Games selection.

Sivaraj Babu

Sivaraj Babu comes into the Indian Open with momentum after winning the Men's Open title at the Little Andaman Pro 2026. He has emerged as a leading surfer from Tamil Nadu, known for his strategic wave selection and consistency.

With only two spots available in the Men's Open Shortboard for the Asian Games, his performance in Mangalore will be crucial.

Kishore Kumar

Kishore Kumar is recognized as one of the brightest young talents in Indian surfing, having made a name for himself through impressive performances in national competitions. He recently made history by reaching the semifinals of the Asian Surfing Championships in the Under-18 category.

His rapid ascent in the sport makes him a key surfer to watch as the Indian Open approaches.

Srikanth D

Srikanth D is known for his technical prowess and ability to balance speed and control during heats. He has been a consistent performer on the national circuit and won the Men's Open title at the 6th Indian Open of Surfing.

His disciplined approach and tactical awareness will be vital as he competes for a spot on the Asian Games team.

Women's Competition Highlights

The women's competition is set to be equally exciting, with Kamali P being one of the standout names. Hailing from Tamil Nadu, she has consistently excelled in national competitions and has defended her Women's Open title at the 6th Indian Open of Surfing.

Kamali's achievements have made her a leading figure in women's surfing in India, and she is a strong contender for the Asian Games.

Sugar Shanti Banarse

Representing Goa, Sugar Shanti Banarse has emerged as a formidable competitor in women's surfing, known for her powerful wave riding and adaptability. Her international experience adds depth to the competitive field as she aims for Asian Games selection.

A Platform for National Pride

The Indian Open of Surfing has historically highlighted the rivalry between surfers from India's eastern and western coasts. With Tamil Nadu surfers often dominating, Karnataka competitors will look to leverage their home advantage at Tannirbhavi.

As surfing prepares for its Asian Games debut, the 2026 Indian Open is not just about titles but also about the chance to represent India on a grand stage.