History of Kabaddi – Overview, Game Rules and History

We will cover everything you need to know about the origin of kabaddi. You can learn about its inception, recent history, and current status. Its rulesets and current tournaments will also be examined for a complete picture.

Kabaddi Rules

Before jumping into the Kabaddi origin, we will examine the rules. The current ruleset, used in professional kabaddi matches and known as Standard Style, was made in 1921 and amended in 1923 by a committee. This was an important moment in the history of the game kabaddi as it codified a ruleset for professional play.

Players are split into two teams of seven players with five substitutes. One player enters the opponent’s side of the field and attempts to touch his opponent to earn points. Additionally, he must do this in a single breath while chanting “Kabaddi” as proof. Below, you can find some additional important points:

While it was once played on muddy fields, the current game is played on a mat separated by several lines. The midline divides the two teams, who guard the baulk and bonus lines. Players must pass the baulk line to return, but passing the bonus line earns them a point.

Players have 30 seconds to score points and can return without any if they pass the baulk line. Even touching the other side with your fingers counts as a return, so players can save themselves if caught. The goal is to earn more points than your opponent, and draws are decided with smaller matches or a coin toss.

The average game lasts only 40 minutes, and there is no special equipment, making the game accessible to everyone. The fast pace and exciting situations make this a popular sport among the best Indian sports betting sites. A player’s skills decide everything, and there’s always the chance to turn things around.

Variants of Kabaddi

Aside from the standard rules, which combine Gaminee and Sanjeevani, there are many other variants in the history of the Kabaddi game. In Bangladesh, the game is known as Hadodo; in Thailand, it is known as Theechub. Throughout the history of the game kabaddi, India has developed numerous variants, with the following being some of the most unique ones:

The Sanjeevani style is the most common globally and resembles the standard style. Meanwhile, the circle style features more players, a circular arena and completely different rulesets. Circle style also has specific tournaments.

As the rules of Kabaddi change depending on the style, each game feels unique and diverse, similar to the gambling titles at the best Indian online casinos. There are also women’s divisions of standard kabaddi, and many children play it at school, which is why this game is so popular.

Origin of Kabaddi

The origin of kabaddi is still somewhat debatable. That includes kabaddi’s country of origin. While most agree that the game appeared around 5000-4000 years ago, it is unclear how it began. Some speculate it originated in India, as it is referenced in their epics, and that it was made by the Aayars or Yadar in Tamil Nadu during the Vedic age.

Others claim that the game originated in Iran in the town of Sistan. As such, it is unclear where and how the history of the game kabaddi began. However, India’s role in popularising the sport is undeniable as it develops just as fast as the eSports scene in India.

However, kabaddi was certainly part of another event. Jallikatu is an event where people try to grab a bull by the horns and ride it, and kabaddi was played as a warm-up before the event. Some even believe Jallikatu inspired the rules of kabaddi, as one player charges into a group of people.

Kabaddi – History of the Game

As mentioned earlier, when discussing the history and origin of kabaddi, its rules were created in 1921 and amended in 1923. During that same year, India held the All India Kabaddi Tournament, leading to the creation of the All India Kabaddi Federation in 1950. Its goal was to promote the game, which began with another official tournament in 1952.

The federation would change its name to the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India and partner with the India Olympic Association to create national competitions. Junior leagues were established, the game became more popular in Asia, and several women’s tournaments were founded.

During the 15th Asian Games in Doha, 2006, the Kabaddi teams would finally have separate quality training stadiums. That would also be the first time people from the US, Australia, and European countries were exposed to the game. It would be a huge turning point in kabaddi’s history of the game, as it quickly gained traction globally.

As new techniques were being developed and the rules gradually refined, the sport continued to prosper, similar to the Indian horse racing industry. It can now be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or skill.

Types of Kabaddi Tournaments

Throughout the history of kabaddi, the game has appeared in various tournaments. It was most common at the Asian Games, an event similar to the Olympics for Asian countries, and having its dedicated championships. Below, you can find some of the most popular kabaddi events throughout history:

While many professional events are still predominantly in India, the sport has also been gaining traction in other countries. The 15th Asian Games were also crucial for the history of the Kabaddi game as players now had dedicated training rooms and better equipment. Soon, women’s championships and junior cups would also appear.

Since 2014, Mashal Sports Pvt. Ltd., Disney Star and the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India have worked together to promote the sport. The Vivo Pro Kabaddi League provides stylish stadiums, better equipment and a professional atmosphere, showing how far the sport has come since its origins.

The Long Road of Kabaddi

From muddy fields to professional stadiums with animated mascots, many things have changed since the origin of kabaddi. The game has become a global hit, and the AKFI has managed to reinvigorate people’s interest in it. Even young kids enjoy playing it at school.

As the game keeps evolving, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the history of kabaddi.

Kabaddi History FAQ

Before wrapping up our article on the history of kabaddi, we will answer all your pressing questions. You can learn more about the kabaddi origin, including its variants and its rulesets. We will also cover its recent history, the biggest events and how this exciting game has changed.

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