Top 5 Countries Where Kabaddi Is Loved (and One of Them Is Unexpected)
Kabaddi began in villages in South Asia. Now, many countries play and watch it. The game is fast and full of action, like wrestling with quick moves.
Betting websites helped kabaddi grow. People now place bets on kabaddi just like they do with cricket. They choose who might win or which player will score points. This happens a lot during big events like the Pro Kabaddi League.
In Pakistan, more fans are using betting apps. Kabaddi is becoming a fresh choice for those who want something new besides regular sports. Younger fans enjoy the fast pace and exciting gameplay.
Countries Where Kabaddi Thrives
1. India – The Cultural and Commercial Hub
India is the main place for Kabaddi Bet because the sport started in villages and is now big in cities too. People in rural areas have played it for a long time. In 2014, the Pro Kabaddi League put the game on TV and made it more popular. That made it more famous in big cities. Big brands and film stars also helped make kabaddi even more popular.
India’s teams are very strong. They regularly take top spots in both the Asian Games and the Kabaddi World Cup. Many people in India also bet on kabaddi, especially during local league matches.
| Metric | India |
| Professional Leagues | 1 (PKL) |
| Total Registered Players | 2.5 million+ |
| Kabaddi and Its Place in the Betting World | ₹1,000+ crore annually |
| International Trophies | 25+ major titles |
2. Pakistan – Rising Participation and Digital Integration
Kabaddi has been popular in Pakistani villages for a long time, especially in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. People gather around dirt fields to watch local matches, and big crowds often come to see the games. Circle Kabaddi is still loved, but the international version is also growing.
Now, many apps let fans watch and bet on kabaddi games. People can choose their favorite local players and place bets during big matches. More players now play kabaddi as a job, and the sport is shown more in the media. That’s why betting on kabaddi is becoming common in Pakistan, especially before big matches.
In Pakistan, kabaddi is also becoming part of fantasy sports. Mobile apps let users create their own teams using real players, just like in fantasy cricket or football. As more people watch kabaddi, these games help bring the sport into the online betting world.
3. Iran – Fast, Smart, and Strong
Iran is now one of the top kabaddi teams featured on platforms like MelBet ID, known for their speed, smart moves, and strong defense. They play with smart moves and good teamwork, so it’s hard to beat them. In 2018, they shocked everyone by beating India and winning gold. The government supports kabaddi, and kids learn it in schools. Because Iran wins often, more people now bet on their players in international matches.
Iran’s teams are important in betting during international kabaddi matches. When they win against stronger teams, it changes the odds and makes them interesting for many bettors.
4. South Korea – The Strategic Surprise
South Korea is known for sports like taekwondo, but kabaddi is also growing there. It started in the 1990s through schools and the army. Now, the country takes part in many international kabaddi events.
Korean teams use speed and smart tactics instead of power. This often surprises stronger teams in early matches. Their way of playing is hard to guess, so fans keep watching and still bet on them, even if they don’t win often.
5. Kenya – The Unexpected Entry
Kabaddi became popular in Kenya thanks to Indian families who moved there. Later, schools began adding the sport to their programs, and more young people got involved. Over the past ten years, kabaddi has slowly grown in the country.
Kenya has teams that play in world kabaddi events, mostly in men’s games. Many players came from rugby, so they are strong and fast. Their way of playing is different, even if they don’t win often.
Betting sites also follow Kenya’s matches. Their games are included during smaller kabaddi tournaments. Many people like to bet on Kenya because they are usually the underdog, and a win can give a big reward.
Betting’s Role in Kabaddi’s Globalization
Betting apps helped kabaddi grow around the world. Before, people only watched it at local matches. Now, games are shown online with live scores, odds, and betting options.
Kabaddi is growing fast because these apps are simple. Fans can follow matches and bet from their phones, no matter where they are. In Pakistan and nearby countries, many people have cheap phones and good internet. They can watch games, make teams, and bet on kabaddi from their phones.
Apps also give bonuses, free money back, and rewards for inviting friends. This mix of old sport and new tech helps kabaddi grow. Now, more media and investors are starting to notice it.
Kabaddi’s Global Rise
Kabaddi is no longer just a village game. Now it’s played in big arenas, streamed online, and followed through betting apps. Countries like India, Pakistan, Iran, and even Kenya are seeing more fans get involved. The sport keeps its roots but fits today’s digital world.
People can now follow kabaddi and place bets anytime and anywhere. This helps the sport grow in many countries. As more nations join the game, interest keeps rising. Teams like Kenya show that kabaddi can grow quickly with support and media attention. Betting also plays a role by keeping fans interested across different regions.