Kabaddi is a traditional Indian sport that has gained international recognition in recent years. This contact team sport originated in ancient India and is now played professionally across the country and in international competitions.
The game involves two teams of seven players each, where one player from the attacking team （known as the raider） enters the opposing team\“s half to tag as many defenders as possible while chanting kabaddi repeatedly in one breath. The defenders must stop the raider from returning to their half while avoiding being tagged.
Kabaddi has deep cultural roots in rural India and is particularly popular in states like Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Bihar. The sport has evolved from local village games to professional leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League, which has significantly increased its popularity and commercial value.
Traditional kabaddi is played on various surfaces including mud courts, while modern professional matches typically use synthetic mats. The sport requires exceptional physical fitness, breath control, strategic thinking, and quick reflexes, making it both physically demanding and mentally challenging. |
