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National U-17 Kabaddi Championship Underway in Telangana

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 13:29 GMT by Telangana Today

National U-17 Kabaddi Championship Kicks Off in Kothagudem: A Rising Tide for Youth Sports in Telangana

The National Under-17 Kabaddi Championship commenced on August 24th, 2023, in Kothagudem, Telangana, marking a significant moment for the sport and showcasing the state’s growing commitment to promoting grassroots level athletics. The championship, hosted at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, features over 350 players representing 28 states and union territories, vying for the top spot in this fiercely competitive event. This article summarizes the details of the event, its significance, the participating teams, and the broader context of Kabaddi development in India, drawing from reports in Telangana Today and related sources.

The Championship & Its Significance

The five-day championship, organized by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) and supported by the Telangana Kabaddi Association, is more than just a sporting event. It serves as a vital platform for identifying and nurturing young talent capable of representing India on the international stage. Kabaddi, a traditional Indian contact team sport, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, fuelled by the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) which has professionalized the game and garnered a significant viewership. This national championship acts as a crucial feeder system for that professional league, providing a stepping stone for budding kabaddi players.

The choice of Kothagudem as the host city is also noteworthy. It highlights Telangana's dedication to decentralizing sports and providing opportunities for athletes beyond major metropolitan areas. Local officials, including District Collector Anudeep Durishetty, emphasized the potential of the championship to boost tourism and create a positive image for the region. The event is expected to generate economic activity locally through accommodation, food, and transportation requirements for the participating teams and officials.

Participating Teams & Competition Format

The championship has attracted a diverse range of teams from across the country. States renowned for their kabaddi prowess, like Haryana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, are all fielding strong contenders. However, the competition isn't limited to traditional powerhouses. Teams from Northeast India, like Manipur and Assam, are also making a strong presence, demonstrating the growing reach of the sport across different regions. States like Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, traditionally not known for their kabaddi participation, are also represented, indicating a conscious effort by the AKFI to promote inclusivity and broaden the talent pool.

The tournament is being conducted under standard kabaddi rules, with teams battling it out in a round-robin format followed by knockout stages. The format allows for a comprehensive assessment of each team’s strength and provides ample opportunity for players to showcase their skills. The matches are intensely contested, with players demonstrating agility, strength, and strategic thinking. The Telangana Today reports emphasized the high level of athleticism and competitive spirit displayed by the players from the outset of the tournament.

Kabaddi's Growth & Development in India

The resurgence of Kabaddi in India can be largely attributed to the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). Launched in 2014, the PKL revolutionized the sport by introducing a franchise-based league format with glamorous production values and widespread media coverage. This has transformed kabaddi from a largely rural and traditional sport into a nationally recognized and commercially viable one. The league has created role models for aspiring players and provided them with opportunities to earn a livelihood through the sport.

However, sustaining this growth requires a robust grassroots development program. This is where tournaments like the National U-17 Kabaddi Championship become critically important. They provide a platform for identifying and nurturing young talent, ensuring a continuous supply of players for the PKL and the national team. The AKFI and state associations are actively involved in promoting kabaddi at the school and college levels, organizing coaching camps and providing equipment to encourage participation.

Telangana's Role & Future Prospects

Telangana has been proactive in fostering sports development, and the hosting of this national championship is a testament to that commitment. The state government has been investing in sports infrastructure and providing financial support to athletes. The success of this event could lead to Telangana hosting more national and international sporting events in the future, further boosting its reputation as a sports-friendly state.

Furthermore, the event provides a valuable opportunity for local kabaddi players to interact with and learn from their counterparts from other states. This cross-pollination of ideas and techniques can help improve the overall standard of kabaddi in Telangana. The state kabaddi association aims to leverage the momentum generated by the championship to further popularize the sport among the youth and create a sustainable ecosystem for kabaddi development.

In conclusion, the National U-17 Kabaddi Championship in Kothagudem is a significant event that showcases the growing popularity of kabaddi in India and highlights Telangana's commitment to promoting youth sports. It is a platform for identifying future stars and ensuring the continued growth of this traditional Indian sport. The event’s success hinges on continued investment in grassroots development and a collaborative effort between the AKFI, state associations, and local communities.