Betting on Kabaddi in India has exploded in popularity, thanks to the rise of the Pro Kabaddi League and the ever-growing love for desi sports. If you’re new to the betting scene or just curious about placing your first bet, don’t worry—we’ve got your back! This guide will walk you through the whole process from start to finish, in plain English. Ready?
What is Kabaddi
Kabaddi is a high-energy, full-contact team sport that originated in India and blends elements of tag, wrestling, and strategy. The game is played between two teams of seven players each, and the goal is simple yet thrilling: one player, known as the “raider,” enters the opposing team’s half of the court and tries to tag as many defenders as possible before returning to their side—all without being tackled. But here’s the catch—the raider must chant the word “Kabaddi” continuously to prove they aren’t inhaling, which makes it physically demanding and mentally strategic at the same time.
The sport is not just a test of strength but also of endurance, reflexes, and game intelligence. Players must think quickly, move faster, and coordinate as a team to either attack or defend. Kabaddi is fast-paced, unpredictable, and loaded with high-stakes moments that make it a perfect fit for sports betting. Every second of the game can shift the outcome, which makes bettors stay on the edge of their seats. With multiple betting opportunities such as raider points, tackle points, and match winners, Kabaddi offers a rich and exciting landscape for gamblers.
Why is Kabaddi Betting Gaining Popularity in India
Kabaddi betting is gaining momentum in India largely due to the rise of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), which has brought the sport into the mainstream spotlight. Since its inception, PKL has attracted millions of fans across the country with its high-quality production, celebrity endorsements, and regional pride associated with the teams. As more fans become emotionally invested in the outcomes of matches, many naturally transition into betting as a way to engage even more deeply. With each season, the league grows bigger, pulling in new viewers and creating more betting opportunities across multiple platforms.
Another key reason for its betting boom is the accessibility and convenience of online sportsbooks and betting apps in India. Thanks to widespread internet access and digital payment options like UPI, Paytm, and PhonePe, placing a bet on Kabaddi has never been easier. These platforms provide live odds, real-time stats, and even live streaming, allowing fans to make informed and dynamic bets. The combination of localized entertainment and high-risk excitement makes Kabaddi betting particularly appealing to Indian audiences who are looking for something familiar yet thrilling.
Legal Aspects of Betting on Kabaddi in India
Is Kabaddi Betting Legal in India
The legality of Kabaddi betting in India is not straightforward—it’s a legal gray area. While there’s no national law that explicitly allows or bans online sports betting, the Public Gambling Act of 1867 prohibits running or visiting physical gambling houses. However, this law was created long before the internet, leaving a loophole when it comes to digital betting platforms, especially those based overseas. As a result, many Indians participate in online betting through international websites that accept Indian players and currencies.
That said, it’s important to note that while skill-based games like poker and fantasy sports have been debated in courts and sometimes allowed, traditional betting on sports is still largely unregulated. Betting on Kabaddi online through licensed international platforms is generally considered safe for users, but always be cautious. Ensure you choose a betting site that operates under a recognized license (like the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission) to protect your funds and personal data. So technically, it’s not legal—nor fully illegal—but rather a risk managed through careful platform selection.
State-wise Gambling Laws
India follows a federal structure, meaning each state has the right to frame its own gambling laws. While there is a central act (Public Gambling Act, 1867), it’s up to individual states to decide how strictly they wish to regulate or allow betting. Some states have taken a liberal stance, offering licenses for casinos and even online platforms, while others have imposed strict prohibitions on all forms of gambling.
Here’s a general overview of how different states treat betting:
- Sikkim and Goa – These states are relatively liberal and have legal frameworks for certain types of gambling, including online lotteries and casino betting.
- Nagaland – Recognizes and regulates skill-based games, including poker and rummy.
- Maharashtra and Gujarat – Very strict and conservative when it comes to gambling. Even online gambling is banned or frowned upon.
- Telangana and Andhra Pradesh – Have amended laws to prohibit all forms of online gaming with monetary stakes.
So before placing bets on Kabaddi, it’s crucial to check your local state laws. Even if the platform is legal globally, accessing it from a restricted region can land you in trouble. Always play safe and stay informed.
Types of Kabaddi Bets
Kabaddi, with its fast-paced and high-intensity nature, offers a wide range of betting markets for fans and bettors. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a stats-obsessed analyst, there’s a type of bet that suits your style. The most common types of Kabaddi bets revolve around match outcomes, team totals, and individual player performances. These bets give players the chance to dive deep into the strategy of the sport or just enjoy the thrill of simple predictions.
| Type of Bet | Description | Common Strategy | Risk Level |
| Match Winner | Bet on which team will win the match. | Study recent form, injuries, and head-to-head stats. | Low to Medium |
| Total Points (Over/Under) | Bet on whether the total points scored by both teams will be over or under a set number. | Analyze average points per game and playing style. | Medium |
| Player Performance Bets | Bet on individual players – such as number of raid or tackle points. | Follow top players like Pardeep Narwal or Fazel Atrachali. | Medium to High |
Let’s take Match Winner bets for starters. This is the most straightforward kind of wager where you pick who you think will win the game. It’s ideal for beginners because it doesn’t require deep knowledge of statistics or advanced strategies. Just by keeping track of team standings, recent performances, or even watching a few games, you can make a reasonably informed choice. However, upsets do happen, especially in Kabaddi where momentum can shift quickly.
Total Points and Player Performance Bets, on the other hand, are better suited for those who like digging into data. Over/Under bets require knowledge of how offensive or defensive teams tend to play. For example, games between two aggressive teams usually have higher total points. Player bets involve predicting whether a star raider like Pardeep Narwal will score over a set number of points. These bets add an extra layer of excitement because you focus not just on the team, but on individual brilliance.
Choosing the Right Betting Platform
Licensed vs Unlicensed Platforms
Choosing the right betting platform is crucial for both your safety and your success as a bettor. Licensed platforms operate under strict regulations, ensuring that your money, data, and bets are handled fairly. Reputable licenses include the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and Curacao eGaming License. These authorities audit the platforms for fairness, security, and responsible gaming practices. If you ever encounter an issue on such a platform, there are procedures in place to protect you.
Unlicensed or shady platforms, however, are a big risk. They may offer attractive bonuses and flashy interfaces, but behind the scenes, there’s often a lack of transparency. You could end up facing delayed withdrawals, rigged odds, or even outright scams. Always check for license details at the bottom of the website, and look for reviews from Indian users. If the platform doesn’t support INR or popular Indian payment methods, that’s also a red flag.
Top Trusted Kabaddi Betting Sites in India
India has seen a rise in international betting platforms customizing their services for the Indian audience. These platforms offer Kabaddi-specific markets, accept Indian rupees, and support convenient payment methods like UPI, Paytm, NetBanking, and even cryptocurrency. Most of them have mobile apps, live match streaming, and 24/7 customer support tailored for Indian time zones.
Here are some of the most trusted Kabaddi betting sites for Indian users:
- Betway – Known for a user-friendly interface and regular Kabaddi promotions.
- 10Cric – Offers exclusive Kabaddi odds and accepts Paytm and UPI.
- Parimatch – Fast payouts and great mobile app, ideal for live betting.
- Dafabet – Focused on Asian markets, includes in-depth stats and team analysis.
- 1xBet – Massive market variety including raid-by-raid betting.
All of these platforms are licensed and cater specifically to Indian bettors. They provide local language support, fast withdrawals, and regular offers during the Pro Kabaddi League season. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just starting out, picking a reliable platform can make all the difference in your betting journey.