Kabaddi isn’t just growing, it’s exploding. What was once a backyard game in Indian villages is now at the center of stadium roars, fantasy leagues, and primetime sports broadcasts. And at the heart of this kabaddi revolution are the warriors who dominate the mat: the Indian Kabaddi players.
From school tournaments in Haryana to Pro Kabaddi League showdowns watched by millions, kabaddi has become a source of national identity and personal pride. In this guide, we spotlight the biggest names in the sport past, present, and future. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer looking to learn, you’re about to discover why kabaddi’s stars are among the most respected athletes in India.
The Rise of Indian Kabaddi Players
Kabaddi is no longer a niche village sport; it has become one of India’s most-watched, celebrated, and fiercely competitive athletic disciplines. Thanks to the growing visibility of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), India’s international dominance, and digital platforms broadcasting live matches, Indian Kabaddi players have risen to national stardom.
From the electrifying raids of Pawan Sehrawat to the defensive brilliance of Fazel Atrachali, kabaddi has become a high-adrenaline spectacle. In this article, we spotlight the famous Indian kabaddi players who’ve redefined the game and inspired millions. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a fantasy league addict, this is your complete guide to the famous kabaddi players in India.
History of Kabaddi in India
Ancient Roots and Rural Dominance
Kabaddi traces its origins back over 4,000 years, often associated with warrior training and strength exercises in Indian villages. It was a test of agility, reflexes, and breath control. Traditionally, it was played in open fields, often as part of festival celebrations.
From Traditional to Televised
The sport transitioned from local tournaments to national glory in the late 20th century. With its inclusion in the Asian Games from 1990 and the formation of the PKL in 2014, kabaddi gained legitimacy as a modern, structured sport. National championships, school tournaments, and televised leagues now ensure year-round visibility.
Cultural Significance of Kabaddi in India
A Game of Grit and Ground
Kabaddi is deeply ingrained in Indian village life, where it represents discipline, teamwork, and strategy. Unlike most modern sports, kabaddi requires minimal equipment, making it accessible to all socioeconomic classes.
Representation in Indian Media
Bollywood and regional cinema often showcase kabaddi as a symbol of rural valor. Films like “Panga” and documentaries on PKL stars have further promoted its reach.
Most Famous Indian Kabaddi Players of All Time
Anup Kumar – The Calm Commander
Nicknamed “Captain Cool,” Anup Kumar is revered for his exceptional game IQ and calm leadership. A key figure in India’s 2016 Kabaddi World Cup victory, Anup popularized strategic raiding and brought class to chaos.
- Achievements: Asian Games Gold (2006, 2010), PKL Champion
- Teams: U Mumba, Jaipur Pink Panthers
Anup’s career laid the foundation for the professionalization of kabaddi. His strategic approach and ability to manage pressure situations made him a mentor figure for younger players in the league. He now works as a coach and commentator, further influencing the sport.
Ajay Thakur – India’s Fearless Raider
Ajay Thakur is known for his running hand touches and never-say-die attitude. Leading India to gold at the 2014 Asian Games, he has served as both captain and senior mentor to younger players.
- Signature Move: Frog Jump
- Awards: Arjuna Award, Padma Shri (2020)
Beyond the mat, Ajay actively promotes kabaddi in schools and small towns, conducting workshops to scout talent and give back to the grassroots where he started.
Rahul Chaudhari – The Poster Boy of PKL
One of the first raiders to cross the 1000-point milestone in the PKL, Rahul brought flair and celebrity to Kabaddi. His popularity among younger fans helped bridge the sport with a digital audience.
- Record: 1100+ Raid Points (PKL)
- Nickname: Showman
Rahul’s endorsements, public appearances, and popularity on social media have turned him into a role model for aspiring athletes across India.
Manjeet Chhillar – All-Round Warrior
Known for his fearless defense and sudden raids, Manjeet is the highest tackle point scorer in PKL history. His consistency made him the backbone of many franchises.
- Strength: Dash and Block Moves
- Role: Defensive All-Rounder
His leadership qualities helped his teams maintain tactical discipline. Post-retirement, Manjeet plans to open a kabaddi academy in Haryana.
Top Performing Indian Kabaddi Players in 2025
Pawan Sehrawat – King of the Mat
Arguably the biggest name in kabaddi right now, Pawan’s speed and skill are unmatched. With record-breaking raid points and consistent match-winning performances, he’s a crowd favorite.
- Record: Most Raid Points in a Single Season (360+)
- Team: Tamil Thalaivas (2025)
His signature high-flying raids make him a favorite in fantasy leagues, and his fitness regime is widely followed by kabaddi fans on social media.
Naveen Kumar – The Naveen Express
At just 25, Naveen has already cemented his place among the greats. His agility and consistency make him one of the most reliable raiders in every match.
- Team: Dabang Delhi
- Strengths: Speed, Footwork, Bonus Point Collection
Naveen is often compared to MS Dhoni for his calmness under pressure. His discipline and quiet confidence make him a future national team captain.
Aslam Inamdar – The Rising Star
Aslam burst onto the scene with Puneri Paltan and quickly became an all-round threat. His tactical awareness and athletic ability have made him one to watch in 2025.
- Position: Raider + Defender
- Team: Puneri Paltan
Known for his underdog story, Aslam emerged from Maharashtra’s local tournaments and rose quickly due to his raw power and strategic brilliance.
Women Kabaddi Players in India Making Headlines
Ritu Negi – Captain Courageous
The face of women’s kabaddi in India, Ritu led the national team to multiple victories in South Asian competitions. Her leadership has inspired young girls across rural India.
- Achievements: Gold at 2019 South Asian Games
- Role: Defender & Captain
Ritu often speaks about breaking gender stereotypes in sports and runs mentorship programs for women athletes in Himachal Pradesh.
Sonali Shingate – Young Raider to Watch
A rising star in women’s kabaddi, Sonali’s journey from local leagues to national representation is inspiring. Her sharp raids and media presence make her a popular athlete in 2025.
- State: Maharashtra
- Strength: Toe Touch, Fast Raids
She has signed a multi-year sponsorship deal with a leading sportswear brand, marking a new era for commercial recognition of female kabaddi players.
Pro Kabaddi League – A Platform for Kabaddi Famous Players
Creating Celebrities from Soil-Born Athletes
Since its 2014 launch, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has turned local talent into national stars. Players now feature in brand campaigns, own YouTube channels, and attract millions of views per match.
- Average Viewership: Over 400 million per season
- Impact: Doubled rural interest and urban fanbase
PKL’s media coverage has given Indian kabaddi players celebrity status, making them as popular as cricketers in rural India.
Boosting Player Income and Recognition
Many top kabaddi players now earn ₹50 lakhs to ₹1 crore per season. This financial uplift has brought stability to players and their families.
- Endorsement Deals: UP Yoddha, Dabur, JSW Sports
Additionally, the league has improved medical support, insurance, and career counseling for players, professionalizing the sport.
Indian Kabaddi Players on the International Stage
India has consistently dominated global kabaddi tournaments. With gold medals in every World Cup and most Asian Games, Indian players are the gold standard.
- 2023 Asian Games: India – Gold
- 2016 World Cup: India defeated Iran in finals
India’s consistent success in international tournaments reinforces its leadership in the sport and acts as a training benchmark for other nations.
International Players in Indian Kabaddi
Fazel Atrachali – Global Star, Local Hero
An Iranian defender who’s played for U Mumba and Puneri Paltan, Fazel is adored for his leadership and commitment.
- Stats: Top foreign defender in PKL history
His fluency in Hindi and rapport with Indian teammates has made him one of the most beloved international faces in the league.
Mohammadreza Shadloui – Iran’s Powerhouse
One of the best emerging defenders, Shadloui is known for his aggressive holds and tackles. His popularity rivals top Indian names.
- Team: Patna Pirates
He’s expected to lead Iran’s team in upcoming global tournaments and possibly coach after retirement.
Fantasy Kabaddi – A New Way to Engage with Players
With platforms like Dream11, MPL, and Vision11, fans now pick their favorite kabaddi players and win real money based on performance.
- Most Picked: Pawan Sehrawat, Naveen Kumar, Fazel Atrachali
- Pro Tip: Balance raiders and defenders for max fantasy points
This new format encourages more data-driven viewership, making even lesser-known players gain cult followings.
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Where to Watch and Follow Indian Kabaddi Players
- Hotstar: Live PKL streaming
- YouTube: Player interviews, fitness routines
- Instagram & Twitter: Matchday updates, behind-the-scenes content
Many famous Indian kabaddi players now share daily stories and match clips directly with fans, building a digital community.
Why Kabaddi is Booming in South Asia
Kabaddi’s simplicity, low cost, and high energy make it ideal for both rural and urban South Asia. In India, kabaddi is now being introduced in:
- Schools under Khelo India
- College-level inter-university leagues
- State government-backed academies
The increased infrastructure means more opportunities for discovering the next big kabaddi famous player. Local tournaments now receive corporate sponsorships, making them stepping stones to PKL.
Top 10 Indian Kabaddi Players (All-Time Greats)
| Player Name | Position | Notable Achievement | PKL Team(s) |
| Anup Kumar | Raider | 2016 Kabaddi World Cup Winner | U Mumba, Jaipur Pink Panthers |
| Ajay Thakur | Raider | 2014 Asian Games Gold | Tamil Thalaivas, Puneri Paltan |
| Rahul Chaudhari | Raider | First to 1000 PKL raid points | Telugu Titans, Tamil Thalaivas |
| Manjeet Chhillar | All-Rounder | Highest PKL Tackle Points | Puneri Paltan, Tamil Thalaivas |
| Pardeep Narwal | Raider | Most raid points in PKL history | Patna Pirates, UP Yoddhas |
| Sandeep Narwal | All-Rounder | Fearless defender | U Mumba, Dabang Delhi |
| Surender Nada | Defender | Master of ankle holds | Haryana Steelers |
| Deepak Hooda | All-Rounder | Indian team captain (2020) | Jaipur Pink Panthers |
| Naveen Kumar | Raider | Fastest to 600 PKL points | Dabang Delhi |
| Pawan Sehrawat | Raider | Most expensive PKL player (₹2.6 Cr) | Tamil Thalaivas |
Regional Powerhouses in Indian Kabaddi
Haryana – The Kabaddi Factory
Known for producing top-level players like Manjeet Chhillar and Surender Nada. The state’s wrestling and kabaddi culture creates a natural breeding ground for top-tier athletes.
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu
Maharashtra has emerged as a key region for all-rounders, while Tamil Nadu contributes elite raiders and defenders. Both states have dedicated kabaddi academies supported by local governments.
Kabaddi Coaching and Training Infrastructure in India
Khelo India and State Academies
The Khelo India initiative has created a standardized pipeline for identifying and grooming young talent. Many state academies now include kabaddi as a core discipline with access to gyms, dieticians, and psychologists.
Private Academies and Franchise-Owned Schools
Teams like Jaipur Pink Panthers and Patna Pirates run training camps year-round. Private sponsors fund talent hunts and organize inter-state competitions to identify the next big names in kabaddi.
Economic Impact of Kabaddi in India
Employment for Athletes and Coaches
Kabaddi now offers jobs beyond playing, coaching, analysis, physiotherapy, media, and brand representation. Rural players who once struggled financially now find kabaddi a pathway to social mobility.
Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships
Top brands like Tata Motors, Vivo, and Dream11 invest in kabaddi. Player endorsements are rising, and fan merchandise is available both online and in retail.
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Technology and Kabaddi – 2025 Trends
Data Analytics and Performance Metrics
Franchises are now using real-time tracking, AI video analysis, and motion sensors to refine gameplay. This helps in injury prevention and optimizing player substitutions.
VR and Simulated Training Tools
Virtual kabaddi arenas and AI-based reaction simulators are being used to test player reflexes and simulate game-like pressure scenarios.
Social Media Influence of Indian Kabaddi Players
Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube Channels
Players like Pawan Sehrawat and Naveen Kumar regularly engage with fans online. They post training routines, motivational reels, and Q\&A sessions.
Impact on Youth Engagement
Youngsters follow their kabaddi heroes online for fitness tips, daily training videos, and lifestyle inspiration. This digital connection has bridged the gap between players and grassroots fans.
Indian Kabaddi and the Olympics Dream
Lobbying by Asian and South Asian Federations
The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) and other national bodies have been lobbying to include kabaddi in the Olympics. Demonstration matches at Asian-level events are helping build global interest.
What India Can Offer the World
India’s expertise, training modules, and professional leagues make it well-positioned to lead kabaddi’s globalization. The hope is to make kabaddi a showcase sport in future multi-sport events like the Commonwealth Games.
Educational and Career Opportunities through Kabaddi
Sports Quotas in Government Jobs
Kabaddi medalists are eligible for quotas in defense, railways, and public sector units, encouraging many to pursue it seriously.
Scholarships and Academic Tie-Ins
Several universities now offer kabaddi scholarships. Players represent colleges in All India Inter-University Championships, giving them dual careers in academics and sports.
The Science Behind Kabaddi Performance
Kabaddi Player Physical Metrics Overview
| Metric | Ideal Range (Men) | Ideal Range (Women) | Description |
| VO2 Max | 50–60 ml/kg/min | 40–50 ml/kg/min | Measures aerobic endurance |
| Reaction Time | <0.25 sec | <0.30 sec | Crucial for raids and defensive tackles |
| Grip Strength | 45–55 kg | 30–40 kg | Important for holding and tackling opponents |
| Body Fat % | 8–14% | 14–20% | Maintains speed and agility |
| Flexibility Score (Sit & Reach) | 15–20 inches | 14–18 inches | Enhances range of motion and injury prevention |
Physical Fitness and Strength Training
Kabaddi players undergo intense strength and endurance training, focusing on core stability, explosive movement, and stamina.
Mental Conditioning and Reflex Drills
Sports psychologists work with players to improve focus, decision-making, and resilience under pressure.
Fan Culture and Kabaddi Fandom in India
Rise of Regional Fan Clubs
Every Pro Kabaddi team has regional fan clubs that organize watch parties, social media campaigns, and fan meetups.
Merchandise and Memorabilia Craze
From jerseys to mobile accessories, kabaddi-themed merchandise is gaining popularity among youth and school students.
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Kabaddi and National Identity
Unity in Diversity Through Sport
Kabaddi showcases the power of teamwork and resilience, bridging linguistic and regional differences across India.
Grassroots to Global Platform
Kabaddi’s evolution into a nationally loved sport reflects India’s ability to elevate traditional games to a global standard.
Health and Wellness Benefits of Kabaddi
Full-Body Workout and Cardiovascular Health
Kabaddi helps improve agility, lung capacity, and reflexes, offering a high-intensity workout in minimal time.
Building Team Spirit and Discipline in Youth
Participation in kabaddi fosters collaboration, time management, and leadership among young players.
Future of Women in Indian Kabaddi
Media Coverage and Sponsorship Challenges
Despite growing success, women kabaddi athletes still face limited airtime and brand sponsorship compared to their male counterparts.
Role of Schools and NGOs in Promoting Women’s Participation
Grassroots campaigns are encouraging more young girls to pursue kabaddi as a professional sport through early interventions.
Regional Kabaddi Leagues and Their Role
Yuva Kabaddi Series
A prominent under-21 league offering match exposure and media attention to young players from across states.
Inter-District and Panchayat Tournaments
These local contests serve as scouting grounds for PKL franchises and state teams.
Conclusion
Kabaddi is more than just a sport, it’s a movement that reflects the cultural roots, athletic excellence, and community spirit of India. Over the years, kabaddi has transformed from a dusty village pastime to a globally recognized professional league sport. This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the relentless passion and dedication of Indian kabaddi players, who continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the mat. As India progresses further into the digital age, the future of kabaddi looks even more promising. The integration of sports science, AI-driven training, fantasy leagues, and digital fan engagement is revolutionizing how the game is played and consumed. Local tournaments and state-backed programs are ensuring that talent from rural India gets the spotlight it deserves, while the Pro Kabaddi League remains a platform for superstardom.
Women athletes, once sidelined, are now getting increasing attention. With more investments, scholarships, and representation, we can expect a stronger and more inclusive ecosystem for female kabaddi players. Additionally, regional leagues, educational tie-ins, and government-supported training programs are expanding the sport’s reach to the youngest corners of the country. India’s dream of making kabaddi an Olympic sport is gaining momentum. As international teams adopt professional structures and India continues to dominate the global scene, kabaddi’s entry into the Olympic fold seems like a matter of time. Until then, the growing international fanbase, robust local ecosystem, and cultural pride will keep kabaddi thriving.
Ultimately, the rise of famous kabaddi players in India tells a broader story of empowerment, identity, and national pride. For fans, athletes, and future generations, kabaddi represents the best of Indian grit and glory. Let us cheer, support, and celebrate this homegrown sport as it sprints into a future filled with even more adrenaline, honor, and unity.
FAQs Top Indian Kabaddi Players
Q: 1. Who is the most famous kabaddi player in India?
A: While Anup Kumar and Ajay Thakur are legends, Pawan Sehrawat is arguably the most famous currently.
Q: 2. Is kabaddi a professional career in India now?
A: Yes, thanks to PKL and international exposure, players can now earn substantial incomes and endorsements.
Q: 3. Which team has the best kabaddi players in 2025?
A: Tamil Thalaivas and Dabang Delhi have some of the top-performing kabaddi players in India.
Q: 4. Can I watch kabaddi matches online?
A: Yes, all PKL and international matches are streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar and other platforms.
Q: 5. How do I join a kabaddi academy in India?
A: Look for Khelo India-accredited programs or contact state sports boards for official training centers.
Stay tuned to kabaddi. It’s not just a game. It’s India’s passion. It’s India’s legacy. And its future is just getting started.
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