Skiing and snowboarding, once seen as niche sports primarily enjoyed in colder, mountainous regions, are increasingly gaining popularity among South Asians.
With growing exposure to winter sports through social media, travel opportunities, and a rise in disposable income, many South Asians are embracing these activities despite having no prior knowledge or experience.
From learning the basics later in life to quickly mastering the slopes, more and more individuals are proving that with determination, anyone can enjoy the thrill of skiing or snowboarding, regardless of their background or when they start. Asian Voice has spoken to several individuals who took up skiing and successfully learned the sport, sharing their inspiring journeys.
Skiing is challenging, but achievable with determination
Filmmaker and chef, Shrimoyee Chakraborty shared her introduction to skiing, saying, “I first heard about skiing after moving to the UK, but it wasn’t something I’d ever considered, especially coming from India. My partner, a ski enthusiast and certified instructor, invited me to try it. Initially, I hesitated due to the cost, but he encouraged me to experience it. Thanks to my background in gymnastics, I picked it up quickly—by the second day, I was skiing! That was nearly a decade ago, and now skiing is a regular part of my winter holidays.”
“However, my partner, who is a certified ski instructor, invited me to experience it for myself. He wanted to show me what skiing was really like and started teaching me. Perhaps because of my background in gymnastics and sports, I picked it up quickly—by the second day, I was already skiing! That was about eight or nine years ago, and since then, skiing has become a regular part of my life. I now look forward to skiing every winter holiday,” she added.
Addressing misconceptions about skiing among South Asians, Shrimoyee said, “Many view skiing as an elite sport, which is partly true due to the costs involved. However, a common misconception is that adults can’t learn to ski. I started at 26, and while it’s challenging, it’s definitely possible with determination and athleticism.”
She added, “Skiing is easier for children—my child started at two and picked it up quickly. But for adults, it’s more about mindset and consistent practice.”
Shrimoyee highlighted the South Asian community’s growing interest in winter sports, saying, “With rising disposable incomes, South Asians are traveling more and exploring activities like skiing, including in destinations like Kashmir. India’s growing economy, improved education levels, and increased awareness of global leisure opportunities have significantly influenced lifestyle choices, encouraging more people to embrace adventurous experiences and foreign holidays.”
Social media and changing mindsets are fuelling interest
Aeronautical engineer, Selvamuthukumaran shared his experience with skiing and snowboarding, saying, “I tried snowboarding once, but it requires more coordination than skiing. Skiing was incredibly enjoyable, despite the challenge of carrying equipment. The thrill of the ski lift and managing to ski down without falling in front of toddlers who’ve skied since they could walk made it all worthwhile, with hot chocolate at the base as the perfect reward. Living in a town with a ski slope, free rentals, and friends who were experienced skiers encouraged me to try it, especially coming from the south of India where such sports were unfamiliar.”
Emphasising South Asian presence in skiing and snowboarding evolving in future, Selvamuthukumaran said, “Traditionally, skiing and snowboarding have thrived in regions with easy access to snow-covered mountains. However, innovative developments like Copenhagen’s summer ski slope showcase how accessibility can be reimagined. In India, limited infrastructure in places like Gulmarg and Auli, combined with affordability issues, hinders widespread participation. The lack of training programs and representation in international competitions further restricts South Asian involvement in these sports. That said, evolving mindsets and social media exposure are driving interest in winter sports. A viral trend or a notable win by a South Asian athlete could spark greater enthusiasm and set a lasting precedent. For those who get the chance, skiing is worth trying—even if it means a few tumbles along the way!”
