A Kabaddi club in rural India is empowering young girls by offering them an escape from traditional gender roles and household duties. Founded 15 years ago by a group of teachers in a small tribal village, the club began with just two girls and has grown to around 30 members, providing rigorous training before and after school. Many girls, like 14-year-old Meena, face resistance from their families and communities, but success stories like Siddhi Chalke and Samreen Burandkar, who became professional players, have helped shift perceptions. The club offers more than just training—it provides scholarships, food, medical care, and mentorship, giving girls from disadvantaged families the chance to pursue sports and education. Through Kabaddi, these girls gain financial independence, confidence, and a sense of identity, often delaying marriage and pursuing university degrees. Meena, inspired by the success of her peers, dreams of becoming the captain of India’s national Kabaddi team, using the sport to create a future beyond the limited roles often assigned to rural girls.
Image via BBC
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