Little Andaman Pro 2026: A New Era for Indian Surfing Begins

Inaugural Little Andaman Pro 2026 Kicks Off

Port Blair (Andaman and Nicobar Islands) [India], April 8: The top talents in surfing and stand-up paddling are gathering in Little Andaman for the first-ever Little Andaman Pro 2026, a national championship set to commence on April 9. This four-day event will take place at the renowned Butler Bay.

Organized by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI) and fully backed by Andaman & Nicobar Tourism, the championship will see nearly 100 competitors across various categories, including Men's Open Surfing, Women's Open Surfing, SUP Sprint (Men & Women), and SUP Technical (Men & Women).

This championship is particularly significant as it marks the beginning of India's surfing season during a pivotal year for the sport, with the country preparing to debut in surfing at the Asian Games in Japan in 2026. Following strong performances at recent Asian Surfing Championships, domestic events like the Little Andaman Pro are vital for athletes' preparation for international competitions.

Leading the men's surfing category are Kishore Kumar, Sivaraj Babu, Srikanth D, and Ramesh Budhial. Kishore Kumar has made a name for himself internationally, earning a silver medal at the Asian Surfing Championships in Taiwan and being one of the first Indians to reach the semifinals at this level. His achievements have also helped India secure qualification slots for the upcoming Asian Games.

Sivaraj Babu brings a wealth of experience from the national circuit, while Srikanth D has established a strong reputation with multiple podium finishes in domestic competitions. Ramesh Budhial, part of India's international team, continues to impress with his consistent performances.

In the women's category, Kamali Prakash, Sugar Shanthi, and Shristi Selvam are anticipated to be strong contenders. Kamali Prakash has represented India in various international events and is recognized as one of the country's top surfing talents. Sugar Shanthi and Shristi Selvam have also emerged as formidable competitors on the national stage, showcasing the increasing depth in women's surfing in India.

Indian surfing has experienced significant growth in recent years, with athletes achieving notable success at international levels, including podium finishes at Asian championships. This progress has not only enhanced the country's competitive standing but has also sparked greater interest in the sport along the coast.

Vinayak Chamadia, IAS, Director (IP&T) of A&N Administration, remarked, “Hosting the Little Andaman Pro 2026 is a significant step in promoting the islands as a premier destination for surfing and ocean sports. We are dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism while creating opportunities for athletes and local communities through such initiatives.”

Beyond the competition, this event highlights the growing significance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a central hub for surfing in India. With its pristine waters, coral reefs, and consistent wave patterns, Little Andaman provides world-class conditions ideal for competitive surfing. By hosting this inaugural national championship, Andaman Tourism is not only advancing the sport but also positioning the islands as a top destination for adventure tourism.

This initiative is expected to significantly enhance tourism by attracting athletes, support teams, and surfing enthusiasts, while also creating long-term opportunities for local communities through sports and related economic activities.

SFI President Arun Vasu stressed the importance of this event, stating, “This championship is timely for Indian surfing. As we gear up for the Asian Games, it is crucial for our athletes to compete in diverse and high-quality wave conditions. We appreciate Andaman Tourism for their full support of this event and for helping us expand the sport into new areas.”

With elite talent, high-performance waves, and a growing national interest, the Little Andaman Pro 2026 is set to deliver four days of exhilarating action while further solidifying India's presence in the global surfing arena.