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Pro Kabaddi League solidifies its position as the second most-watched league with 213 million viewers in the first six weeks
Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the Pro Kabaddi League, has achieved a remarkable success during the halfway mark of the tournament, captivating an astounding 213 million viewers in the first 68 matches of Season 10. This signifies an impressive growth of 16 per cent in reach compared to the previous season, as reported by BARC. The surge in watch time, witnessing a notable 18 per cent increase to exceed 30 billion minutes, along with a 25 per cent rise in TVR** compared to Season 9, bear testimony to the escalating interest and fervour among fans for the electrifying action that the Pro Kabaddi League consistently delivers.
A Star Sports spokesperson said, “Kabaddi has firmly established itself as India’s second most loved sport. Kabaddi’s success story is deeply rooted in its ability to resonate with both urban and rural audiences, creating a unifying thread that binds communities together. The caravan format, returning after a four-year hiatus, has brought novelty and excitement, connecting the sport with fans across diverse regions. The active participation of top celebrities at various venues has significantly heightened the league’s visibility and appeal. We express gratitude to fans for their continued support and passion for India’s sport and look forward to making the 10th season truly memorable.”
The Pro Kabaddi League has not only elevated the indigenous sport to unprecedented heights but also stands as the exclusive non-cricket league consistently crossing the remarkable threshold of 200 million viewers. Star Sports unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled viewing experience is vividly demonstrated by these remarkable viewership figures, highlighting the enduring support and passion of the Indian audience for PKL.
The league’s return to a multi-city caravan-style format, complemented by celebrity associations featuring some of the biggest superstars like Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Hrithik Roshan, Ballaya, Sudeep Kiccha, Tiger Shroff, Pankaj Tripathi, Vicky Kaushal, Manoj Bajpayee, and many more, has brought a layer of stardom into the fast-paced matches and attracted massive crowds who have been kept on the edge of their seats, contributing significantly to the league’s immense popularity.
**Source: BARC India Urban 15+MAB
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
