There are only a few hours left for the World Cup to start and the whole world is in a festive mood. The situation is no different in God’s own country, Kerala, where World Cup fever has gripped every corner of the state. A journey from Thiruvananthapuram in the south to Kasaragod in the north offers a glimpse of the passion that Malayalees have for this beautiful game. Huge cutouts, flags and banners of their favorite teams and players are put up across the state, turning towns and villages into vibrant football grounds.

Brazil’s iconic yellow and green painted houses, murals Lionel Messi holding the 2022 World Cup trophyAnd giant cutouts of Cristiano Ronaldo with messages announcing that he is coming to conquer the world are among the scenes in Kerala that have attracted global attention. Fan rallies organized by supporters from different countries also took place in many parts of the state, showcasing the rivalry, which at times seems more intense than the recently concluded elections.

Visitors to Rajaji Nagar, also known as Chengalchula in Thiruvananthapuram, are welcomed with the flags of Brazil, Argentina and Portugal. While their favorite teams battle it out on the field, local fans participate in a different competition through an ongoing flex-board battle. Chengalchula has also produced a number of talented football players over the years, reflecting the region’s deep association with the game.

It’s no surprise that Brazil has the biggest fan base here. Vinil, one of the leading faces of the local Brazil supporters group, has even created a song dedicated to his favorite team.

He says, “Brazil has more fans here. Argentina, Portugal and France also have fans. Everyone understands football very well. They have become fans not just because of the World Cup, but by watching the game closely. Everyone plays well too. We don’t have enough facilities to encourage them.”

For 17-year-old Nikhil, a devoted fan of Cristiano Ronaldo, the World Cup represents hope. He dreams of seeing his idol finally achieving the highest award and lifting the trophy.

The Portuguese superstar has virtually taken over the hall of Nikhil’s house in Rajaji Nagar. Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 jersey, memorabilia from the clubs he has represented, photographs of him with Ballon d’Or trophies and a hand-painted portrait by Nikhil himself make the room feel like a private museum dedicated to the football icon.

Nikhil’s parents also bought a new big television to ensure that he did not miss a single moment of the tournament.

“There are fewer Portugal fans here compared to others. Everyone shows their support through posters and flex boards. But we hope Cristiano wins it this time,” he says.

Nikhil recalls becoming a fan of Ronaldo at a very young age after watching him play and says he still admires the Portuguese star’s mentality and determination.

Another resident, Suraj, heads the local committee that organizes football festivals in the area. He is particularly proud of the young footballers emerging from the neighbourhood.

He says, “The FIFA World Cup is like Onam for us. In fact, I think every Malayali celebrates the World Cup with even more enthusiasm than Onam. We have many talented players here. One of them, Srikuttan, plays for Kerala Blasters. But there are not enough facilities to help him reach greater heights.”

Like many others, Suraj hopes that future generations will get better infrastructure and opportunities to develop their football talent.

Kerala’s love affair with football It is going viral again and again on social media. Videos depicting the state’s World Cup celebrations have attracted worldwide attention, with football fans in countries such as Brazil and Argentina expressing amazement at the passion displayed thousands of kilometers from their homeland.

Yet, beyond the colors, celebrations and rivalries, there is a shared spirit that unites fans. This tournament could mark the final World Cup appearances for Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar – three players who have defined an era. Some are hoping that one of them will sign off with a trophy, while others are awaiting the arrival of football’s next global superstar.

Whatever unfolds in the coming weeks, one thing is certain. Football in Kerala is more than a game. It’s a tradition passed down through generations, a shared language that transcends age and background, and a passion that refuses to fade away. Long after the final whistle has blown and champions have been crowned, the flags will come down, but the love for the game will remain as strong as ever.

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