Kerala's Argentina obsession is back. And it's coming with free biryani

In Kerala, football is never just about football. It is about neighbourhood rivalries, giant cut-outs, midnight screenings and, increasingly, food.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup entering its decisive stages, Kerala's diehard Argentina supporters have once again begun celebrating every victory with generous food offers, reviving a tradition that became a talking point during the 2022 World Cup.

The latest promise comes from Perumbavoor, where a grocery shop owner has announced that if Argentina reaches the World Cup final, every customer shopping on the day of the final will receive 1 kg of bananas free.

But that's only part of the celebration.

The shop, painted in Argentina's iconic blue and white colours, also plans to install a big screen for knockout matches. On the day of the final, everyone who turns up to watch the match will be treated to free biryani.

Meanwhile, in Kollam, Argentina's latest victory has already inspired another food celebration. 'Neychor Kada' announced a one-day offer of “buy two meals, get one ghee rice free”, inviting fans to celebrate the team's win over a plate of Kerala's favourite comfort food.

A World Cup tradition Kerala refuses to give up
Food giveaways have become something of a World Cup ritual in Kerala whenever Argentina enjoys a memorable run.

When Lionel Messi finally lifted the World Cup trophy in Qatar in 2022, eateries across the state drew huge crowds after announcing free biryani for customers. Long queues formed outside restaurants as owners celebrated Argentina's triumph with thousands of complimentary meals, turning football fandom into a community feast.

Four years later, the tradition is alive once again. As Argentina edges closer to another World Cup final, Kerala's football fever is once more spilling into kitchens, restaurants and grocery shops.