Watch | FIFA World Cup Fever Grips Keralam as Fans Turn Streets into Football Carnivals

With just hours left before the first whistle of the FIFA World Cup 2026, football fever has well and truly taken over parts of India. From giant cutouts and colourful banners to street screenings and fan gatherings, the excitement surrounding the biggest tournament in world football is hard to miss.

Nowhere is that passion more visible than in Keralam, a state where football has long enjoyed a special place in people's hearts.

Although India is not participating in the tournament, that has done little to dampen the enthusiasm. Across towns and villages, fans have decorated streets with the flags of their favourite nations.

In Malappuram district's Wandoor region, Brazil supporters have put up a massive flex banner featuring Neymar and members of the Brazilian coaching staff.

Installed by the Munda Jazz Club, the banner has quickly become a talking point among locals as supporters gear up to cheer for the five-time world champions.

The Malappuram Municipality has also installed a unique football-themed art installation to promote a plastic-free environment and raise awareness among residents ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

Similar scenes are playing out in Kottayam, where posters and banners of football stars have appeared across the town.

Whether it is Argentina, Brazil, Portugal or France, supporters are proudly displaying their colours and backing their favourite teams ahead of the month-long football spectacle.

(With inputs from ANI)