MAM
The deep root of kabaddi mats in India
Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, has ancient roots that trace back over 4,000 years. This contact team sport, known for its intense physical and mental demands, has evolved significantly, with its equipment, particularly the mats used for playing, reflecting a blend of cultural heritage and modern advancements.
Kabaddi’s origins are often linked to ancient Indian epics such as the Mahabharata, where tales of strategy, bravery, and teamwork resemble the game’s essence. Historically, Kabaddi was played on simple, unmarked fields of dirt or clay, which were readily available in rural India. The raw and rustic nature of these early playfields symbolized the sport’s close connection to the land and the community. These early versions likely involved grappling and raiding techniques, played on natural surfaces like earth or grass.
Evolution of kabaddi mats – From cultural significance to modern kabaddi mats
Despite the technological advancements, Kabaddi mats retain a deep cultural significance in India. They symbolize the sport’s journey from rural roots to a globally recognised competition. The mats are not just functional equipment, they are a bridge connecting the past to the present, embodying the spirit of resilience and adaptability. Traditional mats were often made of natural materials like mud, hay, or cloth. These provided a basic playing surface, allowing for the sport’s characteristic dives, lunges, and tackles, and also natural mats had limitations. The mud could become slippery or uneven after rain, while hay and cloth lacked durability. As kabaddi transitioned from rural fields to organised competitions, the need for a more standardised and reliable playing surface became paramount.
However, today’s modern kabaddi mats are typically made from high-quality foam and synthetic material designed to provide shock absorption and grip. The advancements in technology have led to the development of mats that not only ensure player safety but also enhance performance by offering a consistent and reliable surface. Also, Modern mats have the capacity by which they can be used on either side. When one surface deteriorates or gets dirty, you can play the game on the other side of the mat. These mats are more long-lasting. The design of modern Kabaddi mats involves a multi-layered approach. The top layer is often made from non-slip materials to prevent players from slipping during the game. The middle layers are constructed to absorb impact, reducing the risk of injuries such as sprains or fractures. The bottom layer is designed to grip the floor, ensuring that the mat stays in place throughout the game.
The impact on competitive kabaddi
Kabaddi mats are not merely a playing surface; they are a vital component of competitive Kabaddi. Their role in ensuring player safety, enhancing performance, and promoting the sport’s growth is undeniable. As Kabaddi continues Kabaddi mats have significantly impacted the competitive landscape of the sport.
1. Increased player confidence: A safe playing surface fosters a sense of security in players. This allows them to push their limits with greater confidence, leading to a more aggressive and exciting brand of Kabaddi.
2. Faster gameplay: The firm yet cushioned surface allows for quicker movements across the court. This facilitates a faster-paced game with more dynamic raids and tackles, making it more captivating for viewers.
3. Standardized playing conditions: The use of standardised Kabaddi mats ensures consistent playing conditions across different venues. This levels the playing field for all teams, promoting fairness and a focus on athletic skills.
4. Global expansion: Portable Kabaddi mats enable the sport to be played in diverse locations, fostering its growth internationally. This exposure attracts new players and audiences, contributing to the overall popularity of Kabaddi.
Looking ahead: The future of kabaddi mats
The future of Kabaddi mats is undoubtedly intertwined with the advancement of Kabaddi itself. Here are some potential areas of development:
1. Sustainable materials: The exploration of eco-friendly and recyclable materials for Kabaddi mat construction could contribute to a more sustainable sporting environment.
2. Technological integration: Integration of sensors into the mats could provide valuable data on player movement, impact forces, and potential injury risks. This data can be used for training optimization and injury prevention strategies.
3. Smart mats: The development of “smart mats” with interactive capabilities could enhance training techniques. For instance, these mats could light up specific zones to guide players during drills or training exercises.
The evolution of Kabaddi mats in India reflects the sport’s dynamic journey from its ancient roots to its modern-day prominence. While technological advancements have transformed the mats into sophisticated pieces of sports equipment, they continue to embody the cultural heritage and traditional values associated with Kabaddi. These mats are a testament to the sport’s enduring legacy, symbolizing the blend of tradition and innovation that defines Kabaddi’s place in Indian culture and its growing global footprint.
This article has been authored by Gravolite director Paras Maheshwari.
Brands
Kwality Wall’s reports standalone losses following strategic HUL demerger
Ice cream major faces Rs 64 crore Ebitda loss amid commodity inflation and muted Q3 sales
MUMBAI: Kwality Wall’s (India) Limited (KWIL) has released its first set of financial results as a standalone entity, revealing a challenging start to its independent journey. Following its successful demerger from Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) on 1st December 2025 and its subsequent listing on 16th February 2026, the company is navigating a transition period marked by structural changes and high input costs.
For the quarter ended 31st December 2025, the company reported revenue of Rs 222 crores. Despite the revenue base, the bottom line was impacted by several factors, resulting in an Ebitda loss of Rs 64.2 crores. When calculated on a Pre-IND AS 116 basis, the Ebitda loss stood at Rs 83.8 crores.
Organic Sales Growth (OSG) declined by 6.5 per cent year-on-year during the quarter. Volume growth, however, saw a marginal increase of 1.2 per cent. The company reported a gross margin of 41.5 per cent. Additionally, exceptional expenses amounting to Rs 94 crores were recorded, primarily linked to non-recurring costs during the transition phase.
Performance across portfolios and channels was mixed. Within the impulse portfolio, brands such as Magnum and Cornetto recorded mid-single digit volume growth, indicating steady demand in on-the-go consumption. However, the in-home portfolio, which includes take-home packs, experienced muted consumption. The company is planning a relaunch of this category with improved offerings ahead of the 2026 season.
Quick commerce (Q-Com) continued to emerge as a strong growth driver, delivering robust double-digit growth during the quarter. Meanwhile, the company also expanded its physical distribution network by increasing the number of company-owned cabinets across markets.
Margin pressure during the quarter was driven by a combination of one-off factors and broader cost inflation. Gross margins were impacted by around 600 basis points due to trade investments made for stock liquidation. Additionally, cocoa price inflation contributed to another 400 basis points of pressure on margins.
Deputy managing director Chitrank Goel attributed the muted performance partly to prolonged monsoons and transitional challenges linked to the GST framework. Operating expenses also increased as the company invested in establishing its standalone supply chain, operational systems and corporate infrastructure following the demerger.
Looking ahead, the management remains focused on a volume-driven growth strategy. To restore profitability, the company has initiated a cost productivity programme aimed at reducing non-consumer-facing costs. It is also working on building regional manufacturing networks to optimise logistics expenses and improve operational efficiency.
The commodity outlook for the near term remains mixed. Dairy prices are expected to remain firm due to tight supply conditions and rising fodder costs. Sugar prices may also move higher following increases in the Minimum Selling Price (MSP). While cocoa prices have moderated recently, currency depreciation has offset some of the potential cost relief for the company.
