Sports in Punjab, India

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Punjab has a long love for sport, from modern games like cricket and hockey to many traditional games that are played in villages and towns. The state is home to more than 100 traditional games, and since 2014 the government has promoted the Punjab Rural Games to keep these old sports alive.

Traditional games and sports
Kabaddi, played in the Punjab circle style, is a big part of the culture. Wrestling and Kushti are also popular, often done in a circular wrestling pit called an akharha. Gatka, a traditional stick fighting, and other games such as Guli Danda, tug of war, and various children’s games are common too. Kite flying is especially popular during Basant and Lohri festivals. Punjabis have a rich variety of rural games that are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Kabaddi at the world level
Punjab has helped promote Kabaddi globally, organizing events like the Kabaddi World Cup since 2010. In 2014, India won the men’s final against Pakistan, and India again won the women’s final against New Zealand. The closing ceremony took place at Guru Gobind Singh Stadium in Badal, Sri Muktsar Sahib. The World Kabaddi League began in 2014, following the Punjab circle style rules, and was played across several countries that year.

Other traditional and rural games
Many other local games are played across the state, including variations of Kabaddi and children’s circle games that combine sport with songs and stories. Some traditional games involve climbing and jumping, team chasing, or skillful throwing and catching with simple tools found in villages. These games help keep old customs alive while teaching teamwork and agility.

Modern sports in Punjab
Cricket is a favorite, governed at the state level by the Punjab Cricket Association. The Kings XI Punjab (now known as Punjab Kings) are a prominent IPL team based in Mohali. Hockey is also strong, with teams like Punjab Warriors and the Sher-e-Punjab club in Jalandhar competing at high levels.

Football and basketball
Football is organized by the Punjab Football Association, affiliated with the All India Football Federation. Clubs like JCT FC and Punjab FC have played in India’s national leagues, and Punjab has produced many top basketball players who have represented India. In 2016, the Punjab Steelers finished as runners-up in India’s professional basketball league.

Other sports
Chess is played at a professional level under the Punjab Chess Association. There are many traditional games for children and adults, showing how sport in Punjab blends modern interests with a deep, enduring cultural tradition.

In short, Punjab’s sports scene ranges from international cricket and hockey to a wealth of traditional games that keep age-old skills and community spirit alive.