“Kabaddi”: Action, tactics and dynamic

As part of the India Summer Days 2026, plans are afoot to bring a genuine sporting highlight to Karlsruhe for the very first time: ‘Kabaddi’! This traditional contact sport, whose origins are thought to lie in the Vedic period of ancient India, electrifies the masses in India – second only to cricket – combining elements of tag and wrestling to create a fast-paced team sport. A hymn by the Indian poet Tukaram from as far back as the 17th century even states that the god Krishna played the game in his youth.

Two teams play

The concept is gripping: two teams of seven players each face off, with an attacker – the ‘raider’ – running into the opposition’s half to knock out opponents. The challenge? He must touch the defenders and cross the halfway line again – all in a single breath, whilst continuously shouting ‘Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi’! This makes it easy for the referee to keep track of the time!

At the same time, the defence tries to stop him, using their whole bodies. A defender who is tackled is out, as is a ‘raider’ whose attack has been thwarted. If the last player on a team is also out, the opposition scores extra points! (You can see highlights of the game in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmWOorqMfno)

“Kabaddi” is also making its mark in Germany

Incidentally, the Indian national team has won every “Kabaddi” World Championship since 2010. Since 2014, India has had a “Pro Kabaddi League” featuring teams such as “U Mumba” in Mumbai and “Puneri Paltan” in Pune, in the state of Maharashtra.

At the India Summer Days, there will be a thrilling demonstration match of this fascinating sport featuring smaller teams – extra dynamic, easy to follow and packed with action – naturally with commentary for spectators! The “German-Indian Society”, together with the “Germany Kabaddi Federation”, also sees this sport as an opportunity for cultural exchange, particularly in schools and clubs. In Karlsruhe, you’ll certainly have the chance to experience this traditional Indian sport up close!

Mehr Infos unter https://www.prokabaddi.com/ und https://germanykabaddifederation.com/ 

Foto: Gustai/Pixelgrün