The word "kabbadi" refers to a contact sport originating in South Asia. Its pronunciation is /kəˈbɑːdi/ (kuh-BAH-dee), with stress on the second syllable. The first letter, "k," is pronounced as a velar plosive /k/, similar to the "c" in "cat." The following "a" is pronounced as a schwa /ə/, a neutral vowel sound. The double "b" creates a geminated consonant, resulting in a more pronounced /b/ sound. The last two syllables, "di," are pronounced as in "day."
Kabbadi is a team sport that originated in ancient India and is popular in South Asia, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is played between two teams, each consisting of seven players on the field and several substitutes on the bench. The objective of the game is for a player, known as a raider, to enter the opponent's half, tag opposing players, and return back to their own half without being tackled. Meanwhile, the opposing team's players, called defenders, try to prevent the raider from accomplishing this by tackling and immobilizing them.
The game is characterized by its fast pace and physicality, as players rely on quick reflexes, agility, and mental alertness to outsmart their opponents. It involves a combination of running, wrestling, and holding breath, which adds to the excitement and intensity of the game. Kabbadi promotes team strategy, coordination, and communication, as players must work together to defend and attack.
Kabbadi has gained international recognition and is now recognized as an official sport by various sporting bodies, including the International Kabaddi Federation. The sport has its own set of rules and regulations, which ensure fair play and safety for the participants. Kabbadi has also been adapted for indoor and beach versions, further widening its appeal.
Overall, kabbadi is a traditional and exhilarating team sport originating from South Asia, known for its unique blend of physicality, strategy, and teamwork.
The word "kabaddi" has its origin in the ancient Indian sport of the same name. The term "kabaddi" comes from the Sanskrit word "kappaṭṭa", which translates to "holding of breath". In Sanskrit, the word is a compound of "ka" meaning "water" and "vatta" meaning "to cut" or "to break". The compound signifies the action of holding one's breath while approaching the opponent to tag them and then swiftly returning to one's own side. Over time, the pronunciation and spelling of the word evolved, leading to "kabaddi" as it is known today.