Why does cricket have to be a religion? Cricket has long transcended the boundaries of a mere sport, morphing into a phenomenon often likened to a religion in India. This analogy, while evocative, raises profound questions about the nature of this 'religion' and its impact on the societal fabric of a nation that prides itself on its diversity. The Indian cricket team often celebrated as a microcosm of the country's rich cultural mosaic, showcases an inspiring unity that transcends regional, linguistic, and religious divides. This unity, however, seems to be increasingly at odds with the atmosphere in the stadiums where the game is played. In the throes of competition, the stadiums often echo with chants that blur the lines between fervent support and religious zealotry. This phenomenon is not unique to India; sports globally have often been a conduit for intense emotional expression. But in a country where cricket is venerated, these expressions take on a different hue, reflecting deeper societal undercurrents. The commercialization of cricket in India has also played a significant role in shaping its current ethos. High-profile matches, with their exorbitant ticket prices, have become the playground of the affluent, a stark contrast to the sport's roots in the streets and alleys where children from less privileged backgrounds dream of cricketing glory. Children of auto-rickshaw drivers, and poor laborers, now can dream of making it to the national team and becoming wealthy beyond their wildest imagination. Every sport, except for those played by the wealthy, has witnessed this phenomenon of kids from the impoverished sections of society battling to make it big on the world stage. This economic divide raises questions about accessibility and representation in what is considered a national pastime. The demographic of the spectators – often the more affluent strata of society – brings its own set of biases and attitudes to the game. The aggressive competitiveness seen in professional and business arenas finds a parallel in the stands of cricket stadiums. The spirit of sportsmanship, ideally inherent in any sport, risks being overshadowed by a win-at-all-costs mentality of an affluent audience. This shift in the ethos of cricket from a gentleman's game to a symbol of aggressive nationalism and religious fervor is a microcosm of larger societal changes. The voices that dominate the stadiums, often those of privilege, do not necessarily represent the diverse and multifaceted nature of India. The irony is stark – a sport that has seen many of its heroes rise from humble beginnings is now a spectacle often inaccessible to those very sections of society. The children playing in the streets, who see cricket as a beacon of hope and opportunity, are far removed from the high-priced seats of power and influence. As India continues to grapple with its complex social and economic challenges, cricket remains a powerful mirror reflecting these issues.