The Rise of Kabaddi as India’s Favorite Team Sport
Kabaddi, an ancient game originating from India, has recently gained significant popularity as a high-energy, contact team sport. This traditional game played by farmers in rural India has now become a professional sport with its own league and attracts millions of viewers globally.
The Rules and Objectives of Kabaddi
The objective of kabaddi is for one team, the “raiders,” to cross into the other team’s territory, tag opposing players, and return to their side without getting tackled. The opposing team can tackle the raider and defend their court by sending their own players to raid. One point is scored by the raider for each player tagged or for each successful raid scored.
The game requires great physical agility, speed, and strength as attackers and defenders constantly resist each other in a test of skill and stamina.
The Popularity of Kabaddi in India and Beyond
Kabaddi has become more popular in India than other traditional sports such as field hockey and cricket. Kabaddi was first included in the Asian Games in 1990 and has since become a mainstay in the event. It was then added to the South Asian Games a decade later.
The Indian Professional Kabaddi League (PKL) was formed in 2014 to capitalize on the popularity of the sport. The league was an instant hit and garnered significant viewership and sponsorship. The league has helped in the growth of a breed of professional kabaddi players who now earn respect and decent pays through their talent.
Moreover, international audiences have also started to take notice of the sport, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Kabaddi has been included in the World Cup, and India was the winner in all editions held since 2004.
Conclusion
Kabaddi, a sport born and bred in India, is gaining popularity worldwide thanks to its high-octane gameplay, unique rules, and increasing professionalization. With the rise of the PKL, kabaddi players now have a platform to showcase their talent and earn respect in a sport which has been overshadowed by other traditional Indian games. The future of the sport looks bright with increasing global exposure.
