How Did Kanpur Warriors Become the New Franchise for Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League?
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Synopsis
The Kanpur Warriors have entered the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League ahead of its second season, reflecting a significant step towards enhancing local talent and sports culture. This move not only showcases Kanpur's rich kabaddi heritage but also aims to transform the sport into a mainstream phenomenon in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Kanpur Warriors join Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League.
- Owned by BA Sports Club LLP and led by Bhumika Vora.
- UPKL aims to promote grassroots kabaddi.
- First season achieved over 30 million viewers.
- Focus on transforming local culture through sports.
Kanpur, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Kanpur Warriors have officially joined the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) as a new franchise, just in time for the upcoming second season.
Owned and operated by SJ Uplift Kabaddi, UPKL is expanding its reach into areas rich in kabaddi tradition across the state. Given Kanpur's rich kabaddi history, robust youth circuits, and increasing interest in competitive sports, the addition of Kanpur Warriors signifies a pivotal moment in the league's goal to enhance inclusivity and discover local talent.
The team is under the ownership of BA Sports Club LLP and spearheaded by entrepreneur Bhumika Vora, marking a significant initiative to elevate kabaddi within the cultural framework of one of Uttar Pradesh's most fervent cities.
Commenting on this development, Sambhav Jain, director and founder of SJ Uplift Kabaddi, stated, “UPKL was always intended to be a launchpad for grassroots athletes, evolving kabaddi from a street sport into a structured professional ecosystem. Following the remarkable success of Season 1, the inclusion of cities like Kanpur is not merely expansion; it signifies our evolution. Kanpur’s participation reinforces our vision to create a multi-tier pathway for athletes: from local leagues to UPKL, and ultimately to national and international platforms.”
Kanpur’s inclusion as a vital part of UPKL’s growth strategy represents a bold move to transform traditional kabaddi strongholds into centers of high performance driven by ambition and pride.
Bhumika Vora, owner of Kanpur Warriors, remarked, “Kanpur is a vibrant city rich in heritage and untapped talent. With Kanpur Warriors, we now possess a platform to showcase, nurture, and develop this talent. Through UPKL, we strive to dismantle stereotypes, support our youth, and position kabaddi at the forefront of Kanpur's sports culture. The name ‘Warriors’ symbolizes not only athletic resilience but also the spirit of our community. We are committed to establishing a platform where kabaddi is seen as a primary sport, not just an option.”
The inaugural season of UPKL captivated over 30 million viewers on television, according to BARC India, and garnered over 300 million digital impressions, largely fueled by audiences from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Point of View
The inclusion of Kanpur Warriors in the UP Kabaddi League represents a significant advancement in the promotion of local sports. The league's vision of nurturing grassroots talent while building a structured ecosystem for kabaddi athletes is commendable. This move not only enhances the sporting culture in Uttar Pradesh but also provides a platform for young athletes to aspire to greater heights.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League?
The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) is a professional kabaddi league aimed at promoting the sport in Uttar Pradesh, providing a platform for local talent to shine.
Who owns the Kanpur Warriors?
The Kanpur Warriors are owned and operated by BA Sports Club LLP, led by entrepreneur Bhumika Vora.
What is the goal of UPKL?
The goal of UPKL is to transform kabaddi from a grassroots sport into a structured professional ecosystem that promotes inclusivity and local talent.
How successful was the first season of UPKL?
The inaugural season of UPKL reached over 30 million TV viewers and generated more than 300 million digital impressions.
What impact will Kanpur Warriors have on local kabaddi?
The inclusion of Kanpur Warriors is expected to elevate the sport's profile in the region, showcasing local talent and fostering a strong sports culture.
