US, April 2 -- Every summer, the Indian Premier League (IPL) becomes one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Stadiums fill up, streaming traffic surges, and millions across continents tune in-often at unearthly hours-to follow the spectacle. For a few weeks, routines shift, sleep schedules collapse, and even the most casual fans develop strong opinions on team selection.

But beyond the glamour and sixes lies something more profound: the IPL has quietly become one of India's most effective instruments of soft power.

In under two decades, the IPL has transformed from a domestic tournament into a global sporting powerhouse. What began in 2008-when "streaming" still meant buffering-has grown into a league valued at around $18.5 bi...