Kapil Dev Emphasizes the Rise of Golf in India with Corporate Support
Kapil Dev Discusses Indian Golf's Expansion
Kapil Dev, the President of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), expressed his enthusiasm for the increasing corporate interest in Indian golf. He acknowledged that while the sport has significant potential for growth, the involvement of major brands can inspire more individuals to view it as a viable career option. "We still have a long journey ahead, but it's encouraging to see prominent brands partnering with us. This association boosts public confidence and shows that one can build a life around this sport," he stated during the launch of the 27th season of Business Today Golf in New Delhi.
Launch of the 27th Edition of Business Today Golf
The collaboration between the DP World PGTI and Business Today was unveiled at the Qutub Golf Course on Tuesday. This partnership aims to broaden the appeal of golf among corporate leaders and a larger audience. The season preview featured Kapil Dev, professional golfers, and senior editors participating in a pitch-and-putt session, marking the return of the corporate golf event, which will take place across several major business cities.
The 27th edition of Business Today Golf is set to kick off in Kolkata on October 31 at the Tollygunge Club, with plans to cover eight cities. Organizers have also indicated intentions to expand the tournament to more locations in the future. Kapil Dev emphasized that this initiative would introduce more individuals to the core values of golf, stating, "We aim to motivate corporate India to embrace the discipline, patience, and sportsmanship that golf embodies. It's heartening to see Business Today and DP World PGTI collaborating to promote the sport to a broader audience."
Business Today Golf: A Unique Corporate Platform
Alok Nair, Chief Operating Officer of Business Today, remarked, "For over thirty years, Business Today has been pivotal in shaping India's business discussions, connecting influential leaders and influencing the corporate narrative. Business Today Golf serves as a platform where business intersects with golf."
"What distinguishes BT Golf is the community it has fostered as India's first corporate golf platform for 27 years. Each year, it unites some of the brightest minds from various industries in a spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie. We are eager to tee off for the 27th edition with DP World PGTI across eight cities, starting with Kolkata on October 31 at the renowned Tollygunge Club," he added.
Importance of Strategic Partnerships in Golf
Amandeep Johl, CEO of DP World PGTI, also welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the crucial role of corporate and media support in advancing Indian golf. "Whenever media supports golf or any sport, it benefits the nation. This partnership is significant, as my president Kapil Dev often says, I can't achieve success without a good partner. If my partner falters, I too will face challenges. Partnerships are vital in life, sports, and business. Having a major media group join forces with DP World PGTI is a remarkable moment, especially here at Qutub Golf Club," Johl stated.
He further noted that the growing list of commercial partners is enhancing opportunities for professional golfers, citing collaborations with DP World, Air India, HCL, Axis Bank, SR Group, Trident, and Indian Oil. Johl explained that the organization reinvests its earnings into the sport, including prize money, player facilities, and financial support for golfers seeking international opportunities. "Our focus is on the players. We are akin to the BCCI of golf, operating as a not-for-profit entity. All our earnings are redirected towards prize money and improving player conditions. Recently, we established a fund to support players wishing to compete abroad. Every penny is dedicated to the growth of the game," he concluded.
Insights from Professional Golfer Saptak Talwar
The event also featured Indian golfer Saptak Talwar, who achieved the 2026 DP World PGTI Order of Merit with earnings of Rs 1,02,47,684. Talwar, who won the Indorama Ventures Open, secured a spot for the 2027 DP World Tour season. He expressed that the partnership would provide golfers with a platform to demonstrate their skills while bridging the gap between the corporate and sports communities.
"It's incredible. The hard work from both Business Today and DP World PGTI has created this opportunity. These partnerships allow us to showcase our talents while fostering connections between corporate India and the sports sector. Golf uniquely facilitates relationship-building during play, which is not common in other sports. I feel fortunate to be part of this association and am excited about the future," he remarked.
Talwar also acknowledged the increased exposure provided by DP World PGTI, which has elevated the standard of Indian golf. He highlighted the chance to compete alongside major champions at the recent DP World India Championship, stating, "The standard is undoubtedly rising year after year. The exposure we gain from DP World PGTI, including the prestigious courses we play on and the competitive fields, is invaluable. Competing against Grand Slam champions in our own country is a unique opportunity that pushes us beyond our limits. While we've made progress, there's still much to achieve, and I hope to see someone from India winning that trophy soon."