Kabaddi is a traditional Indian sport that has gained international recognition over the years. The first kabaddi player in India to achieve national fame was Shankar Lakshman, who played a crucial role in popularizing the sport. He was part of the Indian kabaddi team that won the gold medal in the first Asian Kabaddi Championship held in Kolkata in 1980.
Kabaddi originated in ancient India and was initially played as a way to develop physical strength and quick reflexes. The sport involves two teams, each taking turns to send a raider into the opponent\“s half to tag as many defenders as possible while chanting kabaddi. The raider must hold their breath during the entire raid, which adds to the challenge.
In recent years, kabaddi has evolved with the introduction of professional leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League in India. This has provided a platform for many talented players to showcase their skills and earn recognition. The sport continues to be a symbol of Indian culture and heritage, promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, and agility. |