PKL's Journey Could Be A Blueprint for Other Emerging Leagues: League Commissioner Anupam Goswami | Exclusive

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The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has revitalized kabaddi, making it one of India's most-watched sports leagues. The league - which started 10 years ago - has transformed the game and also changed the lives of the players who enjoy a good fanbase and support from the fans.

Watching the success of IPL - the franchise-based domestic T20 completion - many sporting leagues mushroomed in the last ten years, but apart from Pro Kabaddi League many failed to sustain and became a thing of the past.

PKL because of its simpler format and engaging matches continued climbing up the ladders of success. Its viewership and fan following continue to improve with every season and established itself as the second-best sports league in the country.

In an exclusive interview with MyKhel, PKL Commissioner Anupam Goswami shared insights into his plans to elevate Kabaddi's presence in India, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh (UP).

He also highlighted the league's responsibility and unique position in popularising the sport, yet emphasised that the sport's growth should ultimately be a community-driven endeavour, nurtured by stakeholders, athletes, and the public. From grassroots initiatives to PKL's role in kabaddi's Olympic dream, Goswami addressed both the successes and the broader challenges facing the sport.

Expanding Kabaddi's Reach in Uttar Pradesh

When discussing UP's potential as a kabaddi hub, Goswami acknowledged the state's significance as a crucial heartland. "Uttar Pradesh has the potential to become a powerhouse for kabaddi talent," he explained, referencing PKL's initiatives like KBD Juniors, a school-level tournament aimed at fostering young talent across the region.

Goswami commended local communities for nurturing kabaddi through grassroots programs, often in challenging circumstances, and acknowledged the need for further support, particularly at the district level.

He also noted the importance of infrastructure, citing a lack of indoor sports facilities in UP and other kabaddi-rich states. "If you look east of Noida, you reach the boundary of Bihar with barely any suitable indoor stadiums," he shared, mentioning that the awaited stadium in Varanasi remains incomplete. Goswami believes creating more localised infrastructure is critical for the sport to thrive, ensuring aspiring athletes have facilities to train and compete regularly.

PKL's Impact on Players' Lives

Since its inception, PKL has transformed kabaddi's public perception, with players now gaining celebrity-like status. Goswami reflected on the league's role in altering how kabaddi is viewed, especially in rural India. "Today, every kabaddi player dreams of playing in the Pro Kabaddi League," he remarked.

"Players are recognised in airports, fans want photos, and kabaddi is no longer a sport people feel hesitant to embrace." This newfound recognition has not only uplifted players economically but has also inspired young athletes across the nation to consider kabaddi as a viable career.

Kabaddi's Olympic Aspirations

Kabaddi's journey to the Olympics is a dream that Goswami holds dear. While the PKL has significantly advanced the sport's visibility and fan engagement, he stressed that an Olympic berth requires more than just fanfare; it needs widespread, sustained efforts at all levels.

"Kabaddi is the strongest-participated sport in the Khelo India Games," Goswami noted, reflecting the sport's popularity among Indian youth. But to realize the Olympic dream, efforts must extend globally, engaging international audiences and athletes alike.

Lessons for Other Leagues from PKL

Goswami emphasised PKL's business model, built on creating a professional sporting framework that balances competition with fan engagement. According to him, the key to PKL's success lies in maintaining a consistent talent pipeline, which ensures high-quality competition year after year.

"We have shown that India has the talent and the fan base to sustain kabaddi as a popular sport, and we strive to deliver the best kabaddi competition in the world," he stated.

Moreover, Goswami highlighted that sustainability is crucial. Unlike some older leagues abroad with legacy assets, Indian sports leagues operate under a modern business construct. PKL's model showcases the importance of evolving fan expectations and developing a structure that is financially and operationally sustainable.

For Goswami, PKL's journey serves as a blueprint for other emerging leagues, demonstrating that nurturing sports in India requires innovation, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to growing talent.

The Future of PKL and Kabaddi in India

Looking ahead, Goswami expressed optimism about PKL's continued expansion, with a clear focus on fostering a robust kabaddi ecosystem, especially in states like UP. "We want to build an aspirational base for kabaddi across India," he said, underscoring the need for collaboration between PKL, local communities, and government bodies to ensure a unified approach to kabaddi's development.

As kabaddi continues to thrive, Goswami believes that PKL's role will shift from merely being an organizer to a facilitator of a broader kabaddi movement in India. "Our opportunity is to create the best kabaddi competition for the fandom of kabaddi," he concluded. "The true success will come when kabaddi is not only played at elite levels but also celebrated across every town and village in India."