New Delhi: India’s top surfers are set to converge at Blue Bay Tannirbhavi Eco Beach as the seventh edition of the NMPA Indian Open of Surfing 2026 begins from May 29 to 31, with the event carrying added significance ahead of surfing’s debut at the upcoming Aichi Nagoya Asian Games.
The championship is expected to feature more than 80 athletes from states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Goa, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Competitions will be held across multiple divisions, including Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Under 18 and Under 14 categories for boys and girls.
Organised by the Surfing Federation of India along with Mantra Surf Club and Surfing Swami Foundation, the tournament has grown into one of the country’s premier surfing events. This year’s competition is expected to play a major role in shaping India’s squad for the Asian Games, significantly increasing the stakes for athletes aiming to secure selection.
Much of the spotlight will fall on leading contenders such as Ramesh Budihal, who recently made history by becoming the first Indian surfer to reach the Open Men’s final at the Asian Surfing Championships in Mahabalipuram before claiming a bronze medal. His recent performances have positioned him among the strongest favourites entering the event.
Surfers including Shivaraj Babu, Kishore Kumar and Srikanth D are also expected to be key challengers as competition intensifies ahead of the national team selection process.
The women’s category is set to feature some of India’s most accomplished surfers, led by Kamali P and Goa’s Sugar Shanti Banarse, both of whom have consistently delivered strong performances on the domestic circuit.
Beyond competition, the event continues to strengthen Mangalore’s growing identity as a hub for surfing and coastal adventure sports. With India preparing for a historic entry into surfing at the Asian Games, the championship represents a crucial moment for athletes hoping to compete on one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages.
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