Kabaddi, a sport deeply rooted in Indian culture, dates back to ancient times, possibly even prehistoric eras. Originally conceived as a way to enhance physical strength, agility, and self-defense skills among young men, Kabaddi has evolved into a game that showcases speed, skill, and strategy.
The modern version of Kabaddi is a fusion of regional variations that were first formally introduced in the 1938 Indian Olympic Games in Calcutta. However, it wasn’t until 1918 that the sport was officially recognized. The establishment of the All India Kabaddi Federation in 1950 marked a significant turning point with the creation of standardized rules, leading to the first Men’s National Championship in Chennai in 1973 under the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India.
Kabaddi in India
India’s dominance in Kabaddi was first seen on an international level when it hosted the inaugural Asian Kabaddi Championship in 1980, where India triumphed as champions. Kabaddi was later added to the Asian Games in 1990 in Beijing, where India clinched its first gold medal. Since then, India has won an impressive six more golds across both the Men’s and Women’s competitions in 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014.
The Rise of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL)
In 2014, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) was launched, transforming Kabaddi into a professional sport with massive nationwide popularity. Inspired by the success of Kabaddi in the Asian Games, PKL ignited a new wave of enthusiasm among Kabaddi fans, making it one of India’s most-watched sporting events.
Are there different Kabaddi types or formats?
Kabaddi isn’t just one game; it’s a blend of multiple variations that evolved over thousands of years, even finding mention in the Mahabharata. Today, the four primary types of Kabaddi played in India are:
- Amar: A popular form in Punjab.
- Suranjeevi: The most widely played version, both in India and internationally.
- Hututtu: A version mostly played in Maharashtra.
- Gaminee: Another regional variation, less common today.
Kabaddi Rules
A Kabaddi match lasts 40 minutes, divided into two 20-minute halves. Each team consists of seven players, with five substitutes available. The game starts with a coin toss, and the winner gets to choose whether to raid or defend first.
How to Play Kabaddi?
Kabaddi involves players crossing over to the opponent’s side, chanting “kabaddi, kabaddi” while trying to tag as many players as possible without getting caught or taking a breath. Successful raiders return to their side to earn points, while defenders try to stop them.
How many players are there in each side of Kabaddi team?
Each Kabaddi team has seven players on the field and five substitutes available for rotation.
Among other rules that every Kabaddi fan should know:
- Super Tackle: A super tackle awards additional points to the defending team for successfully tackling a raider with less than four players on the field.
- Raiders’ Strategy: Raiders earn points by tagging opponents but receive negative points if they get caught or step out.
- All-Out: If all members of a team are tagged, the opposing team earns points for an all-out.
- Disciplinary Cards: Red, yellow, and green cards can be issued for disciplinary violations, with each card carrying penalties.
- Extra Time: Events during extra time are worth additional points, but golden raids are excluded from point accrual.
How to Play Fantasy Kabaddi and Win?
Fantasy Kabaddi is gaining immense popularity. To get started, choose a top fantasy Kabaddi app and select an upcoming match. You’ll need to create your dream team of seven players based on their performance and form. Once the match begins, your team will earn points depending on how well your chosen players perform. If your team ranks high on the leaderboard, you could walk away with real cash prizes.
Which region of India is Kabaddi most popular in?
Haryana stands out as the beating heart of Kabaddi in India, where the sport reigns supreme even over cricket. The town of Sonepat has produced numerous Kabaddi stars, propelling India to the top of the global Kabaddi rankings.
Which country has the best team in Kabaddi sport?
India is the undisputed champion in the world of Kabaddi, consistently ranking first in the International Kabaddi Federation. Following close behind are Asian countries like Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Thailand.
Is Kabaddi there in Olympics?
While Kabaddi was showcased at the 1936 Olympics, it was more of a demonstration sport than an official Olympic event. Since the formation of the International Kabaddi Federation in 2004, the sport has been a regular feature in the Asian Games, South Asian Games, and Asian Beach Games.
