Pro Kabaddi League: Rural Kabaddi Players Becoming Crorepatis

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is not only transforming the landscape of kabaddi in India but is also changing the lives of its players, especially those hailing from rural backgrounds. As the 2024 season approaches, kabaddi players from various regions of the country are stepping into the limelight, and some are even becoming crorepatis, reminiscent of the celebrated game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), which has popularized the concept of winning a crore for answering questions correctly.

As the PKL kicks off, all eyes are on these players to see how they perform on the field. Among them is Sachin Tanwar, a standout player for the Tamil Thalaivas, who became the most expensive player in the recent auction, fetching a staggering ₹2.15 crores. Coming from Badbar village in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, Sachin's journey to this level has been nothing short of remarkable.

Sachin Tanwar – Tamil Thalaivas

Sachin Tanwar's path to success in kabaddi began in his childhood. Reflecting on his past, he recalls skipping school to play the sport, influenced by his family, particularly his uncle and elder brother, Deepak, who also played kabaddi. “I would be excused from school if I performed well in kabaddi,” he shares, highlighting how the sport was woven into the fabric of his upbringing.

After representing India in the 2016 Junior Asian Championship, Sachin made his debut in the PKL, showcasing his raiding abilities and becoming an essential part of India’s kabaddi team. “It fills me with pride to see kabaddi, a rural sport played on dirt, gaining popularity in urban areas,” he states.

As he prepares for the new season, Sachin emphasizes the importance of teamwork, stating, “This is a team game, and the team we join becomes our family.” Outside of kabaddi, Sachin remains grounded, spending time on his family’s farm, where they cultivate crops.

Guman Singh – Gujarat Giants

Another player making waves in the PKL is Guman Singh, now a crucial asset for the Gujarat Giants. Hailing from Sherpur village in Gurgaon, Haryana, Guman grew up idolizing cricketer Virat Kohli and initially aspired to play cricket. However, a twist of fate led him to kabaddi when his uncle introduced him to the sport. At just 15, Guman left home to train at the Narwal Kabaddi and Sports Academy, eventually breaking into the PKL.

Now at 25, Guman has seen his life transformed by the sport. He recently secured a contract worth ₹1.97 crores, a feat that has empowered him to build a house for his family and land a job with the Railways. “Kabaddi has taught me discipline and provided me with opportunities,” he reflects, emphasizing the sport's growing popularity in India, second only to cricket.

Maninder Singh – Bengal Warriors

Maninder Singh, a key player for the Bengal Warriors, has also made significant strides in his kabaddi career. Originating from Panwan village in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, Maninder established himself as a formidable raider on local dirt grounds before transitioning to the national stage. He has since become one of the PKL’s top raiders, boasting two league trophies.

Maninder, who has been the captain of the Bengal Warriors since 2019, was retained this season for ₹1.15 crores. He attributes his success to his mentor, Ran Singh Raniya, who helped him refine his skills during his early career. “Playing on a mat is faster and more exhilarating, allowing raiders like me to gain more acceleration,” he explains.

Maninder envisions a bright future for kabaddi in India, predicting that by 2034, the sport could rival cricket in popularity. He attributes this potential growth to the shorter duration of kabaddi matches compared to cricket, making it more accessible to fans. “The new rules have also made the game more exciting,” he adds.

The Rise of Rural Players

The emergence of these players underscores the transformative power of the Pro Kabaddi League. Many of them come from humble beginnings, and their ascent to financial stability reflects the opportunities that the league has created. The journey of these players serves as an inspiration, showing that with dedication and talent, even those from the most rural backgrounds can achieve financial success and national recognition.

As the Pro Kabaddi League begins, the stories of players like Sachin Tanwar, Guman Singh, and Maninder Singh highlight the sport's potential to change lives. Their journeys from rural villages to the PKL exemplify the power of sports to break barriers and provide opportunities. As they step onto the mat this season, these players not only represent their teams but also the aspirations of countless young athletes across India. The PKL has not only redefined the sport of kabaddi but has also created a new generation of crorepati players, proving that hard work, passion, and determination can lead to remarkable success.