The Real Kabaddi League: A Global Vision for India’s Indigenous Sport
In a groundbreaking initiative set to elevate Indian Kabaddi to global prominence, the Real Kabaddi League (RKL) has announced its first-ever international edition, which will take place in Dubai in December 2025. This move not only aims to showcase the skills of grassroots talent but also seeks to establish Kabaddi as a significant player on the international sports stage.
Nurturing Grassroots Talent
Established by Shubham Chaudhary, RKL has emerged as a premiere platform for nurturing Kabaddi talent from rural and regional India. Since its inception, the league has been committed to empowering local players, providing them with the necessary exposure and opportunities to showcase their skills. By entering the international arena, RKL aims to blend its domestic efforts with aspirations that look beyond India’s borders.
An All-Star Line-up
The league has attracted significant attention, not only for its ambitious plans but also because of its celebrated ambassadors. Rannvijay Singha, a well-known youth icon and sports enthusiast, serves as the League Ambassador. His involvement brings a level of recognition and global appeal, reinforcing RKL’s mission to position Kabaddi as a sport that deserves a spot on the world stage. Singha passionately stated, “Kabaddi has all the ingredients to be a global sport, and we are going to help it get its rightful place.”
Iconic Players Leading the Charge
Adding to the league’s credibility, Rahul Chaudhari, one of India’s most iconic Kabaddi players, has been appointed as the Kabaddi Ambassador of RKL. Chaudhari’s journey from local talent to national stardom serves as an inspiring reminder of what the league hopes to achieve. He expressed his excitement, highlighting how RKL provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their hidden talents. For him, the league represents a historic opportunity to take Kabaddi from rural areas to a global audience.
Cultural Significance and National Pride
RKL’s ambitions resonate deeply within the cultural fabric of India. Abhishek Verma, the Chief Indian Patron of RKL, emphasized that Kabaddi is not just a sport but an embodiment of India’s cultural identity, resilience, and teamwork. His support highlights that RKL is about more than fostering talent; it’s about taking a piece of India’s rich sporting heritage to the world.
Rashid Al Habtoor, serving as the Chief Global Patron, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the league could serve as a cultural bridge, uniting people from diverse backgrounds through the universal language of sport. His backing underscores the potential for Kabaddi to inspire youth globally and establish itself as a major international sport.
A Pioneering Initiative in Sports
The upcoming RKL – International edition is designed to fill a significant gap in the international sports landscape. Following a successful exhibition match organized with the support of the Dubai Sports Council, the league is set to roll out a full-fledged international edition. This endeavor aims to position Kabaddi alongside other globally recognized sports, creating an unparalleled spectator experience.
Impactful Vision and Future Prospects
Shubham Chaudhary expressed that RKL is more than just a tournament; it’s a movement aimed at empowering grassroots talent and establishing Kabaddi’s rightful place on the global stage. He emphasized the league’s vision to celebrate India’s indigenous sports, stating that Kabaddi symbolizes resilience, teamwork, and strength.
With an exciting format featuring teams from India, Iran, Bangladesh, UAE, and Australia, the league is poised to bring together diverse cultures and sporting traditions. Matches will be held in a state-of-the-art indoor arena in Dubai, designed to offer a world-class experience that encompasses entertainment, production quality, and fan engagement.
The event is expected to attract audiences from South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, creating a landmark occasion that celebrates not just the sport but also the cultures surrounding it. The RKL – International edition promises to blend sport and entertainment in a way that has never been seen before, making December 2025 a date to watch for sports enthusiasts worldwide.
