54% Urban Indians To Watch Paris 2024 On TV: Report

For the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, urban Indians plan to primarily follow the event through social media with 55 per cent of respondents planning to rely on platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates and TV broadcasts with 54 per cent of urban Indians intending to tune in to watch the games, according to a recent YouGov survey.

The survey also reveals an uptick in online streaming, with 47 per cent of respondents planning to watch the Olympics through various streaming services. Men are more inclined towards this medium with 52 per cent opting for online streaming compared to 42 per cent of women.

Print and digital news outlets continue to play a crucial role, with 36 per cent of urban Indians turning to newspapers and news websites for Olympic coverage. The preference is particularly seen among older demographics, with 49 per cent of respondents aged 55 and above favouring this medium.

The study highlights generational differences in media consumption. Television broadcasts remain more popular among adults aged 45 and older compared to younger demographics. 

22 per cent of urban Indians plan to watch the games at sports bars or other public venues, suggesting a desire for communal viewing experiences. Moreover, 11 per cent of respondents expressed intentions to attend the Olympics in person, indicating a willingness to travel internationally for the event.

The survey delves deeper into the motivations behind Olympic viewership. Patriotism emerges as a primary driver, with 55 per cent of urban Indian viewers citing support for their country's athletes as their main reason for watching. 

The excitement of the Olympics also proved to be a crucial factor, with 42 per cent of respondents watching for the thrill of the event. Additionally, 33 per cent view the games as an opportunity to feel part of a global phenomenon, while 32 per cent tune in to witness the extraordinary performances of world-class athletes.

Interestingly, social factors play a role in viewership as well, with 19 per cent of respondents watching the Olympics because their friends and family do so.