Kabaddi: India’s Indigenous Sport Goes Global

Kabaddi, a sport that originated in rural India, has taken the world by storm over the past decade. The launch of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2014 was a turning point for the sport, transforming it into a professional competition with a huge fan following. The league’s success has not only popularized kabaddi in urban India but also attracted international attention, with players from countries like Iran, South Korea, and Kenya participating in the PKL.

The 2024 season of the PKL was one of the most exciting yet, with Dabang Delhi KC and Patna Pirates battling it out in a closely contested final. Players like Pardeep Narwal and Naveen Kumar showcased their incredible athleticism, drawing huge crowds and record viewership on television. Kabaddi has become one of India’s most-watched sports, and the PKL has helped transform its image from a rural pastime to a professional, international sport.

India’s national kabaddi teams, both men’s and women’s, have continued their dominance on the international stage. The men’s team has won multiple Asian Games gold medals, and the women’s team is not far behind, having secured their share of international honors. However, competition from countries like Iran has become fiercer, pushing Indian players to raise their game.

Grassroots kabaddi remains strong, especially in states like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu, where the sport is deeply embedded in local culture. Schools and colleges continue to promote kabaddi, and many young players see the sport as a pathway to professional success, thanks to the PKL.

Kabaddi’s global expansion is also noteworthy. The sport is now being played in more than 30 countries, with international tournaments gaining popularity. There is even growing talk of kabaddi’s inclusion in future Olympic Games, which would be a monumental achievement for a sport that started in rural India.