Kabaddi, a sport deeply rooted in Indian tradition, has seen a massive transformation over the past decade, evolving from a rural pastime to a professional sport with a global fanbase. The launch of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2014 has been the driving force behind this transformation, making the sport one of the most-watched in India and gaining international recognition.
The PKL’s success can be attributed to its fast-paced, viewer-friendly format and the introduction of modern broadcast technology, which has made the sport more appealing to a wider audience. The 2024 season of the PKL saw record viewership, with teams like Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers putting on thrilling performances. Star players like Pardeep Narwal and Pawan Sehrawat have become household names, bringing the sport to the mainstream.
One of the key reasons for kabaddi’s popularity is its accessibility. It is a sport that requires minimal equipment, making it widely playable in rural India, where sports infrastructure is often lacking. As a result, kabaddi continues to thrive at the grassroots level, with schools and colleges across the country organizing local tournaments. This grassroots foundation has been crucial in developing a pipeline of talent for the PKL and the national teams.
India’s dominance in international kabaddi is well established. The men’s team has won numerous gold medals at the Asian Games and World Kabaddi Championships, while the women’s team has also made its mark on the global stage. However, other nations, particularly from Iran and South Korea, are catching up, making international competitions more competitive.
The global growth of kabaddi is evident, with countries like Japan, Thailand, and Kenya forming national teams and participating in international tournaments. Kabaddi is now being played in over 30 countries, and the sport is on track for inclusion in future editions of the Olympics.
As kabaddi continues to grow both domestically and internationally, India remains the sport’s powerhouse. With continued investment in the sport’s development and the growing popularity of the PKL, kabaddi is set to reach even greater heights in the coming years.