Para-Athletes Shine in Kabaddi Exhibition Match in Jaipur

The SMS Indoor Stadium in Jaipur was the backdrop for an inspiring exhibition kabaddi match on March 15, 2023, organized by the Wheeling Happiness Foundation in collaboration with the Capri Sports Foundation. The event showcased the talents of para-athletes from two spirited teams, Para Dhakad and Para Warriorz, each consisting of players with diverse disabilities, including arm and leg amputations, as well as polio survivors.

The match featured 12 players per team, all of whom demonstrated remarkable skill and determination on the kabaddi mat. The presence of players from the Bengal Warriorz of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) added to the significance of the event, transforming the competition into a celebration of sportsmanship and solidarity.

Devank Dalal, the captain of Bengal Warriorz, expressed his admiration for the para-athletes, stating, “It was a very nice match to watch, and I consider them the real heroes. They have a lot of struggles in life. If we get a small injury, we take rest, but despite their struggles, they are working hard and playing so well. So it is very motivating for us as kabaddi players.”

The match was not just a display of athleticism; it represented a significant milestone for para-kabaddi. Vikas Kumar, a silver medalist in the 100m at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Nottwil, Switzerland, reflected on the evolution of the sport. He noted, “I used to participate in general able-bodied para-athletics till Rajesh sir (coach) and Deepa ma’am worked hard to bring up para-kabaddi in our country. A lot of my para-athletes have now moved into para-kabaddi as well. Playing on such a big stage is a very proud feeling, especially because our para-athletes are being looked at in the same light as able-bodied athletes.”

Coach Rajesh Kumar, a Bhim Awardee and Asian Para Games medalist, emphasized the importance of such exposure for the athletes. He stated, “We thank the PKL for this opportunity that has been provided for our players. It will give our para-kabaddi players a new identity. It will also act as motivation for the athletes who are sitting at home and watching us play. The future of our para-kabaddi players is very bright, and now even more because of the PKL. We hope that the players from the two teams today will show their talent in the future.”

For many athletes, the chance to compete on the PKL mat was a dream come true. Sachin Tandel, a para-kabaddi gold medalist from Sri Lanka in 2021, shared his pride in the opportunity. “I have been playing para-kabaddi since 2018. This opportunity to represent para-athletes on this stage is a very proud moment for me,” he said.

The exhibition match not only highlighted the abilities of para-athletes but also fostered a sense of community and support among athletes of all backgrounds. As the event concluded, it became clear that the journey of para-kabaddi in India is just beginning, with aspirations for continued growth and recognition in the sports arena.