INDEX

[Link] CONTENT PAGE NO

1. CERTIFICATE 2

2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 3

3. AIM 4

4. INTRODUCTION 5-6

5. OBJECTIVES 6

6. HISTORY 7-9

7. TYPES OF KABADDI 10-12

8. TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES 13-14

9. RULES 15-17

10. FORMAT 18-19

11. BENEFITS 20-21

12. SCIENCE BEHIND KABADDI 22-24

13. KABADDI AND INDIA 25-26

14. CONCLUSION 27

15. BIBLIOGRAPHY 28

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 CERTIFICATE
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT SIDDHEE SINGHAL OF
CLASS XII HAS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED
PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROJECT ON THE TOPIC
"KABADDI" AS PRESCRIBED BY MR. JITENDRA SINGH
SENGAR SIR, DURING THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2024
-2025 AS PER THE GUIDELINES ISSUES BY CENTRAL
BOARD OF SECONDARY EDUCATION.

Teacher In-charge

Examiner's Signature

Principal

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all

those who have provided me with the opportunity to
perform this project.

I would like to thank my chemistry teacher Mr. Jitendra

sir, whose valuable guidance has helped me to complete
the project. His suggestions and instructions have served
as a major contributor towards the successful outcome of
this project.

I take this opportunity to thank our head of the institution,

Mr. Sanju Sharma, who was always supportive and
helpful in fulfilling all our academic requirements.

I would like to thank my parents for giving

encouragement, assistance to me. enthusiasm and
invaluable

Last but not the least; I would like to thank all my

classmates who have supported me in various aspects.

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 AIM

“KABADDI”

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 INTRODUCTION
Kabaddi is a dynamic and thrilling contact sport that has its roots deeply
embedded in the cultural fabric of India. Known for its simplicity,
strategic gameplay, and intense physical demands, Kabaddi is a game
that requires both mental acuity and physical strength. Traditionally
played in rural areas, Kabaddi has evolved over centuries to become a
professional sport with international recognition. While it is played in
various forms across the globe, its heart lies in India, where it enjoys
immense popularity and is considered a national sport in some regions.

The sport involves two teams of seven players each, who take turns
sending a "raider" into the opponent's half to score points while being
chased by the opposing defenders. Kabaddi is unique in that it does not
require any equipment, and the game's fundamental rules are easy to
understand, making it accessible to people of all ages. Its simplicity,
combined with the excitement of the game, has contributed to
Kabaddi's widespread appeal, particularly in South Asia.

In recent years, Kabaddi has gained greater visibility thanks to the

establishment of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in India, which has
brought professional Kabaddi to millions of viewers. The sport has now
moved beyond rural India to urban centres, where it is seen as a symbol
of national pride and cultural heritage.

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This project aims to explore various aspects of Kabaddi, including its
historical evolution, the rules that govern the game, its impact on
physical fitness, and its growing popularity both in India and globally.
Through this study, we will gain a deeper understanding of Kabaddi’s
significance as more than just a traditional sport, but as a modern,
competitive and health-promoting activity that has captured the hearts
of millions.

OBJECTIVES
• To understand the history and origin of Kabaddi.

• To analyse the rules and gameplay of Kabaddi.

• To study the impact of Kabaddi on physical fitness and health.

• To investigate the role of Kabaddi in popular culture.

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 HISTORY
Kabaddi is one of the oldest and most traditional sports in the world,
with its roots tracing back over 4,000 years. Its origins are often
debated, but it is widely believed to have originated in ancient India.
The sport has been mentioned in various historical texts and scriptures,
making it an integral part of the Indian cultural heritage.

Ancient Beginnings: -
The history of Kabaddi is often linked to ancient Indian
mythology and epics. It is believed to have been first described in
the Mahabharata, where it is referred to as "Chhup Kabaddi," a
version of the game that was played during that era. The game
was initially used as a form of training for warriors, helping them
build strength, agility, and endurance. It was a way to practice
both physical combat and strategic thinking without the use of
weapons.
In rural India, Kabaddi was traditionally played in open fields,
with no equipment, and teams would compete by sending a single
raider into the opponent’s territory to tag players while holding
their breath. This version of Kabaddi was particularly popular in
southern and eastern India and was a favourite pastime among
villagers.

Evolution in India: -
The traditional form of Kabaddi remained a popular rural sport
for centuries, passed down through generations. It was not until
the early 20th century that the game began to gain more structured
recognition. In the 1930s, Kabaddi gained attention as a formal
competitive sport, particularly in the state of Maharashtra, where
the first official Kabaddi tournaments were held. The game’s

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 appeal grew rapidly in rural areas due to its simplicity and the
minimal resources required to play.
The sport's popularity began to spread to other parts of India,
including Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Kabaddi was widely played during festivals and religious
gatherings, further embedding it in the cultural fabric of India.

Kabaddi's Introduction to the National Stage: -

In 1918, the first Kabaddi tournament was held in Calcutta
(now Kolkata), marking the beginning of Kabaddi’s transition
from a village game to a more organized competitive sport. The
game continued to evolve and attract greater participation,
eventually gaining official recognition.
The formation of the All-India Kabaddi Federation in 1950
played a pivotal role in the standardization and formalization of
the sport in India. This led to the establishment of national
championships and international competitions.

International Growth and Recognition: -

In the 1970s, Kabaddi’s popularity expanded beyond India. It
began to spread to countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, and
Japan. The sport was also introduced to the international sporting
community, and in 1978, Kabaddi was included as an official
event at the Asian Games. This marked a significant milestone
in the sport's journey to global recognition.
Kabaddi’s rise to international fame continued with the
establishment of the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF)
in 2004. This helped standardize the rules of Kabaddi and
encouraged countries around the world to form their own teams
and participate in international competitions.

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 The Pro Kabaddi League: -
The most significant turning point in the history of Kabaddi came
in 2014 with the launch of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in
India. The PKL revolutionized the sport by introducing a
professional league format that brought together top players from
across India and abroad. The league's success helped Kabaddi
gain a mainstream audience and catapulted it into the spotlight,
especially in urban areas.
The Pro Kabaddi League is now one of the most-watched sports
leagues in India, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch
matches every season. The league has helped modernize Kabaddi,
showcasing the game’s potential as a global sport.

Kabaddi Today: -
Today, Kabaddi is played and enjoyed by millions of people
worldwide. While its roots remain deeply entrenched in India, the
sport has reached international stages, with countries like Iran,
South Korea, and the United States organizing their own Kabaddi
leagues. Kabaddi’s recognition in international competitions,
including the Kabaddi World Cup and its inclusion in the Asian
Games, has significantly raised its profile.
Kabaddi’s blend of strategy, physicality, and teamwork has made
it a unique and exciting sport that continues to thrive and evolve.
The journey of Kabaddi from a traditional village game to a
global sport is a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural
significance.

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 TYPES OF KABADDI
Kabaddi, though rooted in Indian tradition, has evolved into
various formats to suit different regions and purposes. Each type
has unique rules and characteristics, catering to diverse audiences
and playing styles. Below are the main types of kabaddi played
worldwide:

1. Standard Kabaddi
• Description: This is the most common form of kabaddi played in
professional leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and
international tournaments such as the Asian Games.
• Team Composition: Each team consists of 7 players on the court
and 5 substitutes.
• Court Dimensions: Rectangular court measuring 13m x 10m for
men and 12m x 8m for women.
• Key Features:
o Raiders must chant "kabaddi" continuously during their

raid.
o Points are scored by touching opponents or crossing the

bonus line.
o Defenders aim to tackle raiders and prevent them from

returning to their half.

2. Circle Kabaddi
• Description: Popular in rural areas of India and neighbouring
countries, Circle Kabaddi is played on a circular field instead of
a rectangular court.
• Team Composition: Each team usually has 7 players.
• Court Dimensions: Circular field with a radius of 22m.
• Key Features:
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 o There is no bonus line or lobby area.
o The game focuses on strength and agility.
o Variations like Punjab Circle Kabaddi and Amar Kabaddi
are common.

3. Beach Kabaddi
• Description: A fun and fast-paced version of kabaddi played on
sand, typically on beaches.
• Team Composition: Teams have 4 players on the court and 3
substitutes.
• Court Dimensions: A smaller court measuring 11m x 8m.
• Key Features:
o Matches are shorter due to the challenging nature of playing

on sand.
o Focuses on quick raids and tackles.

o Gaining popularity as a recreational sport and in

international beach tournaments.

4. Indoor Kabaddi
• Description: Played indoors on mats, this version is similar to
standard kabaddi but is designed for controlled environments.
• Team Composition: Similar to standard kabaddi with 7 players
on the court.
• Court Dimensions: Same as standard kabaddi.
• Key Features:
o Provides consistent playing conditions.

o Reduces the risk of injuries compared to outdoor versions.

o Common in professional and training setups.

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 5. Amar Kabaddi
• Description: In this type, the game is continuous, and raiders are
not "out" after being tackled. Instead, they remain on the court,
and the game focuses on scoring as many points as possible.
• Team Composition: Varies depending on the tournament or
region.
• Key Features:
o No elimination of players.

o Emphasis on endurance and scoring ability.

o Popular in Punjab and Haryana.

6. Gaminee Kabaddi
• Description: A traditional form of kabaddi where players are
declared "out" if touched or tackled and must wait outside the
court until their team scores to bring them back.
• Team Composition: Typically, 7 players on the court.
• Key Features:
o Focus on strategic play.

o Often played in local tournaments and rural settings.

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 TECHNIQUES AND
STRATEGIES
1. Raiding Techniques
Raiders aim to score points by entering the opponent’s court
and tagging defenders. Key techniques include:
1. Hand Touch: Raiders extend their hand to tag defenders and
retreat quickly.
2. Toe Touch: A raider tags defenders with their foot, useful against
crouching players.
3. Bonus Line Raid: Crossing the bonus line earns points if no
defenders are tagged.
4. Dubki (Dive): Raiders duck under defenders to escape tackles.
5. Running Hand Touch: A fast-paced move to tag defenders while
maintaining momentum.

2. Defensive Techniques
Defenders aim to stop the raider from returning. Common
techniques include:
1. Ankle Hold: Gripping the raider’s ankle to immobilize them.
2. Thigh Hold: A strong grip on the raider’s thigh to prevent
movement.
3. Block: Using the body to obstruct the raider’s path.
4. Chain Formation: Defenders hold hands to limit the raider’s
options.
5. Dive and Tackle: A sudden dive to bring the raider to the ground.

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 Strategies

1. Offensive Strategies
1. Target Weak Defenders: Raiders focus on less agile or strong
defenders.
2. Fake Moves: Deceptive movements to confuse defenders.
3. Timing and Rhythm: Raiders maintain rhythm while chanting
"kabaddi" and execute surprise moves.
4. Bonus Line Utilization: Aiming for the bonus line when
defenders stay back.
2. Defensive Strategies
1. Corner Positioning: Corner defenders tackle raiders escaping
through the edges.
2. Anticipating Moves: Analysing raiders’ body language to predict
their actions.
3. Isolating the Raider: Trapping the raider in a specific area to
reduce escape options.
4. Controlled Aggression: Waiting for the right moment to tackle
without overcommitting.
3. Team Coordination
1. Communication: Defenders coordinate their movements
through signals.
2. Balanced Approach: Teams balance offense and defence
effectively.
3. Role Specialization: Assigning roles like raiders, corners, and
covers based on players’ strengths.

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 RULES
1. Court Dimensions
• Standard Kabaddi:
o Court size for men: 13m x 10m

o Court size for women: 12m x 8m

o Divided into two halves by a centreline.

• Circle Kabaddi:
o Played on a circular field with a radius of 22m.

2. Teams and Players

• Each team consists of 7 players on the court and 5 substitutes.
• Substitutions can be made during the game but only when the
game is paused.

3. Duration of the Game

• Standard Matches:
o Total duration: 40 minutes, divided into two halves of 20

minutes each.
o A 5-minute break is given between halves.

• Circle Kabaddi:
o The duration varies depending on the tournament.

4. Objective of the Game

• The primary goal is to score points by:
1. Raiding: Raiders tag defenders in the opponent's half and
return to their half without being tackled.
2. Defending: Defenders aim to stop the raider by tackling or
holding them.

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 5. Scoring System
• Raid Points: Earned by tagging defenders or crossing the bonus
line.
• Tackle Points: Earned by successfully tackling the raider.
• Bonus Points: Awarded to raiders for crossing the bonus line with
one foot while the other remains in the air.
• All-Out: If all players on a team are out, the opposing team earns
2 additional points.

6. Rules of Play
1. Raid Rules:
o The raider must chant “kabaddi” continuously during the

raid.
o A raid is invalid if the raider stops chanting.

2. Defender Rules:
o Defenders cannot cross the centrelines.

o They must work as a team to tackle the raider.

3. Out Rules:
o A player is declared “out” if tagged by the raider or tackled

by defenders.
o Players can be revived when their team scores a point.

7. Variations in Format
• Beach Kabaddi: Played on sand with smaller courts and 4
players per team.
• Indoor Kabaddi: Played on mats, ideal for controlled
environments.
• Circle Kabaddi: No bonus line, and focus is on strength and
agility.

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 8. Officials and Their Roles
• Referee: Ensures the game is played according to the rules.
• Umpires: Assist the referee in decision-making.
• Scorer: Keeps track of points scored by each team.

Summary of Key Rules:

• Raids: A raider attempts to score points by crossing into the
opponent's side, tagging players, and returning without being
tackled.
• Defenders: The defending team tries to stop the raider by
tackling or blocking their movements.
• Points: Points are earned by successful raids (1 point) and tackles
(1 point). Bonus points are awarded for crossing the bonus line.
• Out: Players are out if they fail to return after a raid, are tackled,
or breach the breathing rule.
• Match Time: The match consists of two 20-minute halves with a
5-minute break.

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 FORMAT
The format of Kabaddi competitions, especially at professional
and international levels, is designed to ensure a fair and
competitive environment. Below are the most common formats
used in Kabaddi tournaments, including the Pro Kabaddi
League (PKL) and international tournaments like the
Kabaddi World Cup.
1. Group Stage Format:
o In a round-robin format, teams are divided into groups.

Each team plays against every other team in their group.

o Points are awarded as follows:

▪ 3 points for a win.

▪ 1 point for a draw.

▪ 0 points for a loss.

o The top teams from each group advance to the knockout

stage. In case of a tie in points, the team with the higher

points difference or head-to-head record moves ahead.
2. Knockout Stage:
o After the group stage, the top teams progress to the

knockout rounds, including quarter-finals, semi-finals,

and the finals.
o Elimination Matches: In the knockout rounds, the losing

team is eliminated, while the winning team progresses to the

next stage.
o Final Match: The final match determines the winner of the

tournament.
3. Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Format:
o The PKL uses a league format with each team playing

against every other team in a round-robin manner.

o After the league phase, the top 6 teams qualify for the

playoffs.

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 The playoffs typically consist of eliminator matches,
o

where teams ranked 3rd to 6th face off in knockout matches.

The top two teams directly qualify for the semi-finals.
o The final match determines the PKL champion.

4. Kabaddi World Cup Format:

o The Kabaddi World Cup generally follows a group stage

format, where teams are divided into groups and play

against each other.
o The top teams from the groups advance to the knockout

stage, with the final match determining the world champion.

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 BENEFITS OF PLAYING
KABADDI
1. Physical Benefits
• Improved Fitness: Running, dodging, and tackling improve
stamina, cardiovascular health, and overall fitness.
• Strength and Flexibility: The game builds muscle strength,
especially in the core, legs, and arms, while improving flexibility.
• Enhanced Reflexes: Quick decision-making and movements
sharpen reflexes and coordination.
• Weight Management: The high-intensity gameplay helps burn
calories and maintain a healthy weight.

2. Mental Benefits
• Focus and Concentration: Players must stay alert and anticipate
opponents’ moves, boosting concentration.
• Stress Relief: Physical activity releases endorphins, reducing
stress and promoting mental relaxation.
• Confidence and Strategic Thinking: Success in the game
enhances self-esteem and sharpens decision-making skills.

3. Social Benefits
• Teamwork and Communication: Kabaddi fosters collaboration
and builds effective communication among teammates.
• Leadership Skills: Players develop leadership abilities by
guiding and motivating their teams.
• Camaraderie and Sportsmanship: The sport promotes respect
for opponents and builds lasting friendships.

4. Health Benefits

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 • Respiratory Strength: Chanting “kabaddi” during raids
enhances lung capacity and breathing efficiency.
• Injury Prevention: Improved flexibility and strength reduce the
risk of injuries.
• Boosted Immunity: Regular physical activity strengthens the
immune system.

5. Personal Growth
• Discipline and Resilience: Players learn discipline, time
management, and perseverance through challenges.
• Cultural Pride: Kabaddi connects players to India’s rich heritage
and traditions.

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 SCIENCE BEHIND
KABADDI
1. Biomechanics in Kabaddi
Biomechanics is the study of movement. In Kabaddi, players
apply these principles during actions like running, dodging,
tackling, and raiding:
• Running and Sprinting: The sport involves quick sprints, where
proper posture and technique help maximize speed and efficiency.
• Jumping and Dodging: Raiders rely on muscle force and kinetic
energy to jump and dodge defenders. Quick changes in direction
are crucial for evading tackles.
• Tackling: Defenders use force and body weight to stop the
raider’s momentum, employing principles of leverage and
angular momentum.

2. Physiology of Kabaddi
Kabaddi demands significant energy from the body’s
cardiovascular and muscular systems:
• Energy Systems: The game alternates between high-intensity
bursts (raiding and defending) and rest, using both anaerobic
(short bursts) and aerobic (recovery) energy systems.
• Muscle Engagement: Kabaddi works the core, legs, and arms.
The core stabilizes the body, legs power movement, and arms are
used for tackling and raiding.
• Stamina and Endurance: Players require endurance to maintain
high performance throughout the match. Stamina is built through
cardiovascular training.

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 3. Psychology and Mental Agility
Mental strength is crucial in Kabaddi, requiring focus, quick
decision-making, and stress management:
• Focus and Concentration: Players must stay alert and anticipate
their opponent’s moves, which requires intense concentration.
• Stress Management: The fast-paced nature of the game can
cause stress, but players manage it through mental conditioning
and relaxation techniques.
• Quick Decision-Making: Players must decide rapidly whether to
raid or defend based on the game situation, using strategic
thinking and quick mental responses.

4. Aerodynamics and Movement

Aerodynamics plays a role in a player’s movement, especially
during jumps and dodges:
• Jumping: Raiders use air resistance and drag principles. A
streamlined body posture reduces drag, allowing for more
efficient movement through the air.
• Dodging: Quick lateral movements help evade tackles. The less
resistance a player faces, the faster and more agile they can move.

5. Coordination and Reflexes

Kabaddi requires excellent coordination and fast reflexes:
• Reaction Time: Players must react instantly to opponents’
actions. Fast processing of visual and auditory cues is essential
for success.
• Hand-Eye Coordination: Players need to coordinate their
movements precisely when tagging or avoiding tackles, which
improves with practice.

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 6. Recovery and Rest
Given the intensity of Kabaddi, recovery is vital for maintaining
performance:
• Active Recovery: During breaks, players engage in light activity
to help clear lactic acid and prepare for the next round.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and nutrition are key
to recovery, ensuring players stay energized and ready for the
game.

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 KABADDI AND INDIA
Kabaddi and India
Kabaddi, a sport deeply rooted in India’s culture, is often
considered the country’s national sport. With origins tracing back
over 4,000 years, it has evolved from a rural game to an
internationally recognized sport, representing teamwork,
endurance, and strategy.

Historical Significance
Kabaddi’s history dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The
game is mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata.
The term “Kabaddi” is derived from the Tamil word meaning
“holding your breath,” reflecting the core skill of the game.
Initially played informally in villages, Kabaddi was a way to
develop physical strength and teamwork. It became a popular
rural pastime, especially during festivals and fairs.

Modern Kabaddi in India

The modern era of Kabaddi began in the 20th century, with the
establishment of the Kabaddi Federation of India in 1950. India’s
dominance in the sport was evident when it hosted the first
Kabaddi World Cup in 1972. The country has since won
numerous World Cup titles and continued its reign as the leading
nation in Kabaddi.
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), launched in 2014, brought
Kabaddi into the mainstream. The league has revolutionized the
sport by making it more accessible, with professional teams,
sponsorships, and widespread media coverage. This has
significantly increased Kabaddi’s visibility in India and
internationally.

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 Cultural Impact of Kabaddi in India
Kabaddi holds immense cultural significance in India. It is more
than just a sport; it is a community activity that fosters unity and
resilience. The game is a part of many Indian festivals, especially
in rural areas. Kabaddi matches are organized during
celebrations, bringing communities together.
India’s success on the international stage, with numerous titles in
the Asian Games and World Cup, has made Kabaddi a source of
national pride. The sport’s achievements enhance India’s global
standing in the world of sports.

Kabaddi and Youth Development

Kabaddi plays a crucial role in youth development in India. It
promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and mental agility. Schools
and colleges have adopted Kabaddi as part of their sports
curriculum, offering young athletes the chance to excel in the
sport.
The Pro Kabaddi League has inspired a new generation of players
to pursue Kabaddi professionally. It provides a platform for
young talent to showcase their skills, with many players now
becoming role models for aspiring athletes.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its popularity, Kabaddi faces challenges such as limited
infrastructure and the need for better training facilities. While the
PKL has helped bring Kabaddi to the forefront, the sport requires
more grassroots development and international exposure.
However, the future of Kabaddi in India looks promising. With
growing sponsorships, government support, and increasing fan
interest, the sport is set to expand globally. The inclusion of
Kabaddi in multi-sport events like the Asian Games is a step
towards bringing it to a larger international audience.

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 CONCLUSION

Kabaddi is a significant part of Indian sports, deeply embedded

in the country's culture. It promotes teamwork, endurance, and
unity, with India leading internationally in competitions like the
Kabaddi World Cup and Asian Games. The sport’s widespread
popularity, especially in rural areas, continues to inspire youth to
pursue it professionally.

Globally, Kabaddi has immense potential. The Pro Kabaddi

League (PKL) has boosted its visibility, attracting sponsors and
fans. With inclusion in events like the Asian Games and growing
interest worldwide, Kabaddi is set to expand internationally and
represent India on the global sports stage.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY

❖ Our physical education teacher: - Jitendra sir

❖ [Link]
❖ [Link]
❖ [Link]
❖ "Kabaddi: India’s National Sport" by Arvind Singh, The
Times of India, 2018.
❖ Kabaddi Federation of India Annual Report, 2022.

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