The Global Rise of Kabaddi: A Transformative Journey from India to the World
The World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 recently hosted a groundbreaking panel session that shed light on the remarkable transformation of India’s traditional games into global sporting sensations. The session, titled “Indigenous Sports: From India to the Global Stage,” brought together key figures from government, sports administration, and global sports strategy to discuss the growing popularity and success of indigenous sports, particularly Kabaddi.
The Panelists
The session was kicked off by Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, who emphasized the importance of recognizing and promoting India’s traditional sports on a global scale. The panel featured a distinguished lineup including Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports; Mr. Anupam Goswami, Business Head of Mashal & League Chairman of Pro Kabaddi League; Mr. Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho Kho Federation of India; Mr. Nic Coward, Sports Consultant; Mr. Yannick Colaco, Co-Founder of Fancode; and Mr. Fazel Atrachali, an Iranian Pro Kabaddi League star.
The Success Story of Pro Kabaddi League
A major highlight of the discussion was the phenomenal success of the Pro Kabaddi League, which has played a pivotal role in elevating Kabaddi to a global phenomenon. Mr. Anupam Goswami shared staggering figures that showcased the untapped potential of indigenous sports, particularly Kabaddi.
Mr. Goswami highlighted the 2024 season, which reached 201 million viewers, underscoring the growing traction for Indian indigenous sports. He emphasized that while the global stage is an aspiration, the real opportunity lies in unlocking India’s vast and diverse market. He stated that Indian indigenous sports are not merely games but represent a powerful opportunity for growth and engagement.
The Human Impact
Fazel Atrachali, captain of the Iran national Kabaddi team and a Pro Kabaddi League star, shared a moving testimonial about the life-changing influence of PKL. He emphasized how the league has transformed the landscape of Kabaddi, making players from different countries stars and bringing joy to their families.
Atrachali’s personal journey reflected the transformative power of the Pro Kabaddi League, where players have found success, financial stability, and recognition on a global platform. He credited the league for changing his life and the lives of many other players.
Promoting India’s Traditional Games
The panelists recognized the efforts of initiatives like the Pro Kabaddi League in promoting India’s traditional games on a global scale. Smt. Raksha Khadse expressed gratitude to individuals like Mr. Goswami and Mr. Mittal for their dedication to advancing traditional games.
Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi commended the resurgence of traditional sports like Kabaddi, attributing their popularity to initiatives like the Pro Kabaddi League. He highlighted how Kabaddi has transitioned from a local sport to one of India’s most popular and commercially successful leagues, inspiring youth across the nation.
The Future of Kabaddi
As the Pro Kabaddi League enters its 12th season, India’s traditional games, especially Kabaddi, are on track to become the country’s next major export to the global sports and entertainment industry. With growing viewership and international recognition, Kabaddi is poised to make a significant impact on the global sporting stage.
Global Expansion of Kabaddi
While Kabaddi has deep roots in Indian culture and history, its appeal has transcended borders to captivate audiences worldwide. Countries like Iran, South Korea, Bangladesh, and Kenya have embraced Kabaddi as a competitive sport, leading to the formation of national teams and leagues. The internationalization of Kabaddi has not only broadened the sport’s reach but also fostered cultural exchange and camaraderie among players from diverse backgrounds.
One of the key drivers of Kabaddi’s global expansion is the Pro Kabaddi League’s success in showcasing the sport’s fast-paced, thrilling nature to a wider audience. The league’s innovative format, star players, and high-octane matches have captured the imagination of fans across the globe, paving the way for Kabaddi to emerge as a mainstream sport on the international stage.
Empowering Athletes through Kabaddi
Beyond the entertainment value and commercial success of Kabaddi, the sport has become a vehicle for social change and empowerment, particularly for athletes from marginalized communities. The rise of grassroots initiatives, academies, and talent development programs focused on Kabaddi has provided a platform for aspiring athletes to showcase their skills, pursue professional careers, and uplift their families and communities.
By nurturing talent at the grassroots level and providing opportunities for athletes to excel on a global platform, Kabaddi has become a symbol of hope and resilience for countless young men and women seeking to break barriers and achieve their dreams.
Innovation and Evolution in Kabaddi
As Kabaddi continues to gain momentum on the world stage, there is a growing emphasis on innovation and evolution within the sport to ensure its long-term sustainability and relevance. Initiatives such as introducing new formats, leveraging technology for fan engagement, and enhancing player welfare and safety standards are reshaping the landscape of Kabaddi and setting new benchmarks for success.
Furthermore, collaborations with international sports organizations, sponsorship deals with global brands, and strategic partnerships with media and entertainment companies are propelling Kabaddi into a new era of growth and prosperity, solidifying its position as a formidable player in the global sports industry.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
As Kabaddi continues to transcend borders and cultures, it has become a symbol of unity, diversity, and inclusion. The sport’s ability to bring people together from different countries, backgrounds, and walks of life exemplifies the power of sports in fostering harmony and mutual respect among nations.
In an increasingly interconnected world, Kabaddi’s ability to bridge cultural divides, celebrate diversity, and promote inclusivity serves as a testament to the transformative impact of sports in promoting global understanding and cooperation.
Conclusion
The remarkable journey of Kabaddi from its origins in India to its global prominence is a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal, resilience, and transformative power. As Kabaddi continues to break new ground, capture hearts, and inspire generations of athletes and fans around the world, its future as a global sporting phenomenon looks brighter than ever. With a rich tapestry of tradition, innovation, and inclusivity, Kabaddi is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of sports and continue its transformative journey for years to come.
