The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a tournament—it’s an emotion. With every passing season, fans ask the same fiery question: Who is the father of IPL? Or in more casual terms, “IPL ka baap kaun hai?”

Some say it's MS Dhoni. Others point at CSK as the dominant team. And a few even believe it's someone else entirely. In this blog, we'll break it down with facts, stats, and opinions to find out who truly deserves the title "Baap of IPL."

Let’s get started!

What Does “Baap of IPL” Really Mean?

Before we start comparing teams and players, let’s understand what this title actually means.

  • "Baap" literally means father, but in IPL lingo, it means the boss, the most dominant, or the most respected figure or team.

  • It’s not just about stats—it’s also about impact, fan love, and legacy.

So, when someone asks "IPL ka baap kise kaha jata hai?", they want to know who’s been the most influential force in the IPL's history.

MS Dhoni – The Man Many Call the Father of IPL

MS Dhoni’s name comes up every single time this topic is discussed—and for good reason.

Dhoni’s IPL Achievements

  • 5-time IPL Champion as captain (tied with Rohit Sharma)

  • Most matches as IPL captain – over 200

  • Over 5,000 IPL runs, often finishing games under pressure

  • Played every season since 2008

Why Fans Call Dhoni the Baap of IPL

  • Calm under pressure—nicknamed “Captain Cool”

  • Known for smart strategies and game-reading ability

  • Built CSK into a family-like team

  • Constantly backed young Indian players

MS Dhoni is not just a player—he’s a symbol of trust, consistency, and leadership. When people say “father of IPL,” most point to him without hesitation.

CSK – The Team That Defines Consistency

Now let’s talk about Chennai Super Kings (CSK)—arguably the most loyal and consistent fanbase in the IPL. If Dhoni is the face, CSK is the body that carries the legacy forward.

CSK's Records Speak Loud

  • 5 IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)

  • 10 final appearances – more than any team

  • Highest win percentage in IPL history

  • Comeback kings—won the title in 2018 after a 2-year ban

CSK Ka Baap Kaun Hai?

This question may sound odd, but it usually refers to which team dominates CSK. Over the years, Mumbai Indians (MI) has been CSK’s biggest challenger, especially in finals.

Still, CSK has more consistency across seasons, and that gives them a strong case for being “IPL ka asli baap.”