By SRTeam Kabaddi is one of India’s most loved sports known for its energy, team work, and thrilling moments. It is that thrilling sports you know where strategy meets strength. Over the years many talented players showcased their skill making the sports popular not only India but also in globally. Thanks to the Pro Kabaddi league (PKL) this sport has reached to anew height. Many Indian players have impressed everyone with their amazing performances, winning respect and love from fans everywhere.
These players have inspired young athletes with their hard work, strength and skill. From great raiders to strong defenders they have shown their effort and determination.These players not only contributed to the success of their teams but have also brought glory to India in international arena.
Now let’s checkout our list of top 10 Famous Kabaddi Players in India:
1. Pardeep Narwal
Pardeep Narwal known as the “Dubki King” is one of the greatest Kabaddi player in history. He is top raider in Pro Kabaddi League history with 1690 points in 170 matches. Pardeep began his PKL journey with Bengaluru Bulls in season 2 but rose to fame with Patna Pirates winning 3 consecutive PKL tiles. He holds the record for the most super raids and most touch points in a single raid. He was also the first point to cross 1500 raid points in PKL history. His achievements include most MVP and best raider awards.
2. Maninder Singh
Maninder Singh a Punjab based Kabaddi star, is known for his sharp tactics and master of do or die raids. With 1428 points in 143 matches he is a key player for the Bengal warriors and a standout Raider in PKL. He is widely popular for his game changing skills and contribution to the Indian national team. He holds the record as the fastest raider to 400 and 500 points in 2018- 19 PKL season. His career best 20 raid points secured a thrilling 45-50 win against Gujarat Giants.
3. Pawan Sehrawat
Pawan Sehrawat known as the “High flyer” is a star Indian kabaddi player who currently plays for Telugu Titans in the PKL. A Delhi based all rounder he holds the record for being the most expensive player in PKL history. He was bought for 2.60 crore for season 10. Pawan debuted with Bengaluru Bulls in season 3 becoming their top raider. With 1189 points in 126 matches he has proven his skills as a reliable performer. He won gold medals at the 2019 south Asian games and Asian Kabaddi Championship 2023. Pawan also won the prestigious Arjuna Award for his outstanding contribution to Kabaddi.
4. Rahul Chaudhari
Rahul Chaudhari also known as “Raid Machine” is a exceptional kabaddi player From UP. Initially Rahul started as a defender and later became one of the top raiders in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). With 1045 points in 154 matches Rahul became the first player to reach 500,700, and 800 points in PKL history. He has played for many teams like Telugu Titans, Tamil Thalaivas, and currently represents Jaipur Pink Panthers. He was part of the gold winning team at the 2016 South Asian Games. His unique aerial raiding move has made him a fan favourite.
5. Deepak Ram Niwas Hooda
Deepak Hooda is a talented all rounder for the Patna Pirates in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). With 154 matches and 1020 points he is regarded as one of the India’s top kabaddi player after Pardeep Narwal. Deepaka has been playing kabaddi from his childhood and achieved great success. He was a key player for Haryana’s gold winning team at the 2014 Senior National Kabaddi tournament. He has won many medals including gold at South Asian Games and Kabaddi world cup.
6. Naveen Kumar
Naveen Kumar Goyat also known as the “Naveen Express” is a talented Indian Kabaddi player who plays for Indian team and Dabang Delhi KC in the pro Kabaddi League. At just 24 years of age he has earned a good reputation for his playing style, speed, and remarkably raiding skills. He made his debut in 2018 with Dabang Delhi and quickly became one of the top raiders of the PKL. He holds the record for being the fastest player to reach 600 points and earned MVP award for season 7 and 8. His international achievements include helping India win 13th South Asian Games and the Asian Kabaddi championship in 2023.
7. Sachin Tanwar
Sachin Tanwar (born 19 july 1999) is an Indian Kabaddi player known for his raiding skills. He played for Patna pirates until 2024-2024. Currently he is playing for Tamil Thalaivas in the PKL and the Indian national team. At just 25 Sachin is one of the youngest player in the league with 952 points in 128 matches. He made his debut for the Indian team in 2017. His achievements include gold at the 2017 South east Asian games and the Asian beach games.
8. Arjun Deshwal
Arjun Deshwal also known as “Raid Machine” is a talented Indian Professional kabaddi player. He plays as a raider for Jaipur Pink Panthers in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). He is also known for his aggressive raiding style. Arjun began his kabaddi journey at the age of 14 inspired by watching local village players. With 947 points in 91 matches his top level skills have made him one of the top raiders in PKL. Apart from Kabaddi he serves as DSP in the UP police. He was part of the Indian team that won the gold at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and 2023 Busan Asian Kabaddi championship.
9. Ajay Thakur
Ajay Thakur born on May 1, 1987 In Himachal Pradesh is a legendary kabaddi player and a DCP. Known as the Ice Man he has led India to victory in 2016 Kabaddi world cup and 2014 Asian games winning gold medals. Ajay Thakur who has received Padma Shri and Arjuna Award has played for several teams in PKL and is considered one of India’s top raiders. He has a record of 719 points from 120 matches. Alongside his bright sports career he serves as a police officer in Himachal Pradesh.
10. Surender Nada
Surender Nada is an Indian Kabaddi player known for his exceptional defensive skill and signature move the ankle hold. Born on 1st July 1987 he has played for multiple teams in PKL including U Mumba and Haryana Steelers. He has also represented for India contributing team’s medal wins which includes 2016 Kabaddi worldcup win, gold in Asian kabaddi championship 2017, 2019 South Asian games.
Conclusion
Kabaddi a sport that deeply rooted in India’s culture has grown in to a global game. Thanks to players like Rahul Chaudhari, Pardeep Narwal, Ajay Thakur and others who inspire with their talent and dedication.