For most of its history, kabaddi was a sport you played, not one you watched on television. In just over a decade, that has changed. Here is how it happened.
Before the league
Kabaddi had national tournaments and a loyal community of fans, but it rarely reached mainstream television. Many top players held ordinary jobs, and the sport relied on goodwill and local support.
A new idea
In 2014, the Pro Kabaddi League launched. It borrowed ideas from other franchise-based leagues, with city-based teams, an auction for players and a short season built for television. The matches were fast and compact, with a lively presentation.
The first seasons
The first season drew a large audience on television, and surprised many observers. Fans quickly took to the pace and drama. Players who had been little known became household names, and matches were watched by millions.
A new class of professional
The league changed the lives of many players. Contracts brought financial security, and professional training brought better fitness and technique. Players from small towns were suddenly national figures, with fans around the country.
Changes to the game
To suit television, the league adopted rules and presentation that made the game easier to follow, and introduced mats and bright, modern arenas. Coaches began to use analytics and fitness plans. Some purists worried about the changes, but most fans embraced them.
Growth
Over the years, the league expanded in the number of teams and the length of the season. It inspired other kabaddi competitions, and fans began following leagues in other countries.
Taking the sport abroad
Kabaddi has been a part of the Asian Games for decades, and has fans in countries across Asia. The league’s success has raised the hopes of those who want to see the sport grow worldwide.
What comes next
The future depends on strong grassroots programmes, support for young players and continued interest from fans. If those hold up, kabaddi may continue to grow.
A full circle
The story of kabaddi’s journey is a reminder that tradition and modernity can go together. The sport still carries the spirit of the village ground, but it now has a place in prime time, and a new generation of fans to carry it forward.