It was still played , but predominantly in rural areas . Kabaddi is one of India 's oldest indigenous sports -- it 's basically a combination of school - yard tag and football . Kabaddi 's popularity faded away over the years , as sports like football dominated the screens . Now a new professional league is underway , and is being screened by a major Indian channel .
Kabaddi is one of India 's oldest indigenous sports -- it 's basically a combination of school - yard tag and football . Kabaddi 's popularity faded away over the years , as sports like football dominated the screens . Now a new professional league is underway , and is being screened by a major Indian channel .