Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League: Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam Flags Off Historic First Edition in Gurugram

Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League: In a vibrant celebration of sport and culture, Haryana Sports Minister Shri Gaurav Gautam officially inaugurated the much-anticipated Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) at Gurugram University on Friday evening.

The air crackled with energy as fans, dignitaries, and athletes from around the world gathered for what promises to be a path-breaking chapter in kabaddi’s global journey. A colourful confluence of athleticism and cultural pride, the GI-PKL is the first-of-its-kind international kabaddi league designed to bring together Indian and overseas talent in a franchise-based format.

The tournament’s maiden edition kicked off with a set of thrilling men’s encounters that set the tone for what is expected to be a gripping 13-day spectacle, culminating on 30 April at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.

The glittering opening ceremony saw the attendance of several notable figures, including Shri Gaurav Gautam, D Suresh, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Government of Haryana, Ms Kanthi D. Suresh, President of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA), and Mr Ashok Das, acting President of World Kabaddi.

During his address, Minister Gaurav Gautam beamed with pride. “Haryana has always excelled in the field of sports, and kabaddi is deeply rooted in our culture. It is a proud moment to witness an international league of this stature being hosted here in Gurugram. I commend HIPSA for their efforts in promoting kabaddi globally and for providing a platform to both Indian and international players,” he said, receiving thunderous applause from an enthusiastic crowd.

HIPSA President Kanthi D. Suresh, an influential force in kabaddi’s globalisation, echoed similar sentiments. “I’m happy to see such excitement and passion among the players, both from India and abroad. This league marks a significant step toward kabaddi’s international recognition and inclusivity, especially with women athletes competing in a franchise format,” she said, highlighting the league's progressive stance.

A Cracking Start to the League

The action began on the mat with a nail-biting contest between Punjabi Tigers and Tamil Lions. The Tigers snatched a narrow 33–31 win, despite the Lions racking up more raid points. The Tigers’ razor-sharp defence, which included 13 tackle points and two crucial all-outs, proved to be the deciding factor. With nerves of steel in the dying minutes, the Tigers opened their campaign on a victorious note.

The excitement only soared higher in the next match, as Haryanvi Sharks clashed with Telugu Panthers in a fiercely competitive duel. The Sharks emerged victorious with a tight 47–43 win. Although the Panthers fought valiantly and even pulled off four super tackles, the Sharks' strategy, including a crucial super raid and four bonus points, gave them the edge in a thrilling four-point triumph.

But the most dominant performance of the evening came from the Marathi Vultures, who completely overpowered the Bhojpuri Leopards with a commanding 42–21 victory. The Vultures' defensive prowess was on full display, as they collected 22 tackle points, executed five super tackles, and enforced four all-outs. The Leopards struggled to get a foothold in what turned into a one-sided affair.

Looking Ahead: Women’s Matches and Global Reach

The league features six men’s teams—Marathi Vultures, Bhojpuri Leopards, Telugu Panthers, Tamil Lions, Punjabi Tigers, and Haryanvi Sharks—and an equal number of women’s teams: Marathi Falcons, Bhojpuri Leopardess, Telugu Cheetahs, Tamil Lioness, Punjabi Tigress, and Haryanvi Eagles. The women’s competition kicks off on 19 April, with Marathi Falcons taking on Telugu Cheetahs in the inaugural clash.

Each matchday will host three high-octane encounters, all starting from 6:00 PM IST and broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten HD, Sony Sports Ten SD, and FanCode—bringing the thrill of kabaddi to living rooms across the globe.

The league stage runs till 27 April, followed by the men’s semi-finals on 28 April, women’s semi-finals on 29 April, and the grand finals for both divisions on 30 April.

HIPSA’s Vision: Globalising Kabaddi

The tournament is being organised under the banner of HIPSA, an organisation that has consistently worked to elevate kabaddi beyond borders. In December 2023, HIPSA signed an MoU with the Haryana Government to promote international kabaddi training programmes. In March 2024, they etched their name in history by helping kabaddi enter the Guinness World Records during a mega-event at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula.

With players from Asia, Europe, and Africa, the GI-PKL represents a seismic shift in kabaddi's global perception. Not only does it offer a professional platform for seasoned and emerging talent alike, but it also sends a strong message of gender inclusivity by hosting women’s matches in the same franchise format.

As the floodlights lit up the court and the cheers echoed through the halls of Gurugram University, the launch of GI-PKL felt more like a movement than a mere tournament. It wasn’t just about scoring points—it was about reviving traditions, celebrating diversity, and crafting a new international identity for kabaddi.

With blazing tackles, daring raids, and a dash of global camaraderie, the Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League is officially off and running—and it promises to be nothing short of spectacular.