Pro Kabaddi League : The sport is slowly getting the recognition it deserves

The Pro-Kabaddi League has been an hit with the audiences so far

Recognition for Kabaddi

Game in a society is an exhibition of physical stamina, energy, brevity and its culture and it cannot be deserted from mainstream endeavors. They define the prevailing society and people in it. India is a country of cultural diversification which exists in games, making it more diverse and textured than we realize it. The Games are not only an emerging entertainment medium, but a source of new art form.

Kabaddi, an extremely popular game of India’s rural masses got exposed first in 1936 Berlin games. Considered to be an offbeat game, it never got the importance that it deserved. It has always been clutched somewhere between eminent games like cricket and football. But, things are beginning to change with the arrival of  Pro Kabaddi league (PKL) . Played mostly in hinterland, the rustic game is getting an opportunity to bond with celebrated brands and elites.

It is a strong start but still need to improve in many ways. The opening week’s response was truly encouraging as the first day of Pro Kabaddi attracted 72.5 million viewers, as per TAM data. This means that over 218 million Indians have watched the tournament, claims official broadcaster Star Sports. This shows that it’s is gaining support from the audience making it a true Indian sport. Not only this, the game has its viewer from all age segments. Star India CEO (sponsor PRO Kabaddi league) Uday Shankar said that, “Kabaddi has every ingredient, including skill, speed and strategy which are required for it to emerge as a serious sport. There will a lot of fan following”.

Kabaddi should be nurtured across India

Youth will be encouraged to take up the sport. Few have started campaigning in smaller towns to attract customers in rural areas. Sandip Tarkas, president customer strategy, at Future Group and CEO of Bengal Warriors, said, "The investment has turned out so well in the small towns from a business point of view that we are hoping to have a good future ahead.

Modification of the unadorned game provides employment opportunity in the rustic areas as brands like future group and other hiring local distributors and team for brand endorsement. It is also helping abridge the gap between the rural and urban audience.

Definitely, Kabaddi league shows immense potential for the growth of domestic games. Condition of Kabaddi and other homespun games need to be improved by giving special attention. The need of quality sporting action for prolonged success is the only possible way for long term benefits to all. Organizers and sponsors should recognize the need to engage world class talent within the country.  It can’t be a reckless ride as these leagues are not quick solutions and success will also be short-lived if the fundamentals are avoided. It is possible that the bucolic game would achieve the admiration and stature it deserves.