Meena’s Kabaddi Dream: Escaping Tradition for a Brighter Future

Meena scans the field, her eyes darting from left to right, waiting for her chance to rush into the opposing team’s territory. This is not just a game for her—Kabaddi offers her a rare glimpse of freedom and potential at a tender age.

Kabaddi is a traditional Indian contact sport that has grown popular in over 50 countries worldwide. It’s played between two teams of seven players, who alternate turns tagging opponents in the opposing team’s half of the playing area.

For Meena, a 14-year-old girl, Kabaddi offers much more than just physical competition. It provides rare opportunities for growth and empowerment in a society where girls often face limited prospects.

Meena’s story is a reflection of the challenges faced by young girls in rural India. Traditionally confined to household chores and early marriage, these girls often lack exposure to other avenues of empowerment.

“It feels different when I play,” she says softly, her shy demeanor suggesting the weight of her reality. “In that moment, I am not the Meena bound to housework and societal pressures. It’s just me and the opponent—and I feel more powerful than other girls who don’t play.”

Meena’s village, Kudoshi, is about 230km away from Mumbai. Fifteen years ago, a group of teachers at the local school sought to open doors for girls by starting an all-girls Kabaddi club.

“I have a daughter, I want her to achieve things in life,” explains Daji Rajguru, one of the club’s founders. “Why can’t girls play Kabaddi and make a career out of it?”

When the club first started, resistance wasn’t uncommon. With only two girls initially joining, parents were hesitant. Concerns about safety and marital prospects were common.

“Parents were not ready to let their girls play Kabaddi as it meant spending time away from home,” Rustam, a colleague of Daji, recalls. “They also worried about how it might impact their daughter’s marriage prospects in a traditional society.”

The founders of the club were undeterred. They painstakingly reassured parents about the girls’ safety and overall well-being.

Gradually, the club saw more sign-ups. Now, with around 30 girls training daily, the club has made a significant impact on the community. The number of girls who have passed through the club since its inception is close to 300.

Meena’s determination is palpable. Training for two hours before and after school, she leaves her village home at dawn and returns only at nightfall.

“I go alone and it’s dark. I used to be afraid that somebody could do something to me,” she admits, her courage evident despite her young age.

Her perseverance is inspired by role models within the club. Siddhi Chalke and Samreen Burandkar, two former club members, are now professional league players and financially independent, a testament to the club’s impact.

“No-one in my family earns as much as I do,” says Samreen Burandkar, now a professional Kabaddi player. “I live in a big city and can make my own choices.”

Siddhi Chalke agrees, echoing Samreen. “I never would have pursued this path otherwise. I would have been married and taken care of my husband’s household instead.”

“We are not just their coaches,” explains Vilas Bendre, another coach. “At times, we are their parents, guiding them and helping them make the right choices.”

This support system is imperative, ensuring that the players get both the physical training and emotional fortitude needed to overcome societal pressures.

Looking ahead, Meena dreams of becoming the captain of India’s Kabaddi team. For her, this is more than just a personal ambition—it represents a break from the norm.

“I hope to be the best raider and become the captain of India’s Kabaddi team,” Meena says, her resolve strong despite the challenges.

The Kabaddi club in Kudoshi continues to inspire and empower young girls, giving them a glimpse of what is possible beyond their villages.

The impact of these clubs extends far beyond just Kabaddi. They offer young girls opportunities in education, sports, and financial independence, broadening their horizons and challenging societal norms.

If you are inspired by Meena’s story and want to support clubs like hers, consider donating or volunteering your time. Every contribution can make a difference in the lives of girls in rural India.