How Kabaddi Became India's Fastest Growing Sport | CNBC Sports
Kabaddi, once considered a rustic rural pastime, has rapidly transformed into India's second most-watched sport, gaining popularity both nationally and internationally. With its unique blend of strategy, physicality, and excitement, kabaddi has captured the hearts of fans and athletes alike. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of kabaddi, exploring what makes it such a thrilling sport and how it became a sensation.
The Basics of Kabaddi
Kabaddi is played on a rectangular court measuring 13x10 meters, divided into two halves by a midline. Two teams, each consisting of seven players, take turns raiding and defending. The objective of a raider is to enter the opponent's half, touch one or more defenders, and return safely within 30 seconds. The catch: the raider must chant "kabaddi" continuously while crossing the midline and back. A moment's silence on the opponent's side leads to elimination.
For each defender touched, a raider scores a point, but the defenders aim to tackle the raider and prevent their return, earning one point for a successful tackle. Players forced out of the court are also eliminated.
The Rise of Kabaddi as a Professional Sport
Kabaddi's journey from rural pastime to a professional sport is nothing short of remarkable. Until recently, it was confined to dusty playgrounds, far from the limelight. However, with the advent of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2014, things changed dramatically.
PKL, conceptualized in 1994 but realized only in 2014 with Star Sports as its broadcaster, has witnessed significant growth in terms of investment and viewership. From 2016 to 2017, PKL's viewership in India surged by almost 100 million. Domestically, it outperforms even the FIFA World Cup.
With massive sponsorship deals and increased investment, player salaries have also soared. The highest-paid player jumped from under $130,000 in 2016 to $210,000 this year, making kabaddi a lucrative career for aspiring athletes.
Kabaddi's Global Expansion
Kabaddi's influence isn't limited to India anymore. At the 2018 Asian Games, neither the men's nor women's Indian kabaddi teams clinched gold, raising eyebrows worldwide. This unexpected turn of events exemplifies the sport's global growth, as new teams now pose a legitimate threat to India's dominance.
Kabaddi's unique feature, the honesty policy, adds to its charm. Players voluntarily admit when they've been touched, a testament to the sport's integrity. However, make no mistake; kabaddi is not for the faint-hearted. Most players carry injuries, bearing witness to the sport's brutal physical demands.
A Glimpse into the Kabaddi Experience
To truly understand the intensity of kabaddi, one needs to step onto the mat. The game requires strength, fitness, mental agility, and fearlessness. As a player in the Pro Kabaddi League, the atmosphere can be nerve-wracking, but the thrill is undeniable.
With the growing popularity of kabaddi, betting sites focused on kabaddi have also emerged, adding another layer of excitement for fans and bettors. If you're interested in engaging with the sport in a different way, exploring a kabbadi betting site can provide an exhilarating experience while watching the matches unfold.
Conclusion
Kabaddi's journey from obscurity to stardom in India is a testament to the nation's passion for sports. With the Pro Kabaddi League's success and growing international interest, kabaddi is no longer just a rural game but a global sensation, captivating audiences with every 30-second high point. As the sport continues to evolve, more young athletes will be drawn to kabaddi, ensuring its legacy as one of India's most beloved and fastest-growing sports.