Mumbai to Host Inaugural Aapli Mumbai Kabaddi Championship Starting March 24
Mumbai is set to launch the Aapli Mumbai Kabaddi Championship (AMKC), a groundbreaking initiative designed to fortify the city's grassroots kabaddi infrastructure. According to an official release, this first-of-its-kind structured platform will commence on March 24, 2026, marking a significant step in addressing the historical lack of organized competitive avenues for local players and clubs.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The championship, organized under the Mumbai Shahar Kabaddi Association, is scheduled to run from March 24 to March 29, 2026. All matches will be held at the Bharitya Krida Mandir Sports Complex in Wadala, with daily games starting at 6:00 PM. Over the course of six days, a total of 25 matches will be played, featuring an intense schedule:
- Six matches each on the first three days (March 24-26)
- Four matches on the fourth day (March 27)
- Three matches on the fifth day (March 28)
- The grand finale on March 29 at 9:30 PM
This recurring city-level competition aims to create a professionally managed ecosystem that unites players, clubs, officials, and fans, fostering a vibrant sports culture in Mumbai.
Participating Clubs and Prize Structure
The tournament will showcase the rich diversity of Mumbai's kabaddi landscape, with participation from 12 prominent local clubs. These include Amar Krida Mandal, Navodit Krida Mandal, Shivneri Krida Mandal, Good Morning Sports Club, Durgamata Sports, South Canara Sports Club, Siddhiprabha Foundation, Vijay Navnath Mandal, Jai Bharat Krida Mandal, Ankur Sports Club, Sunil Sports Club, and Vijay Club.
To incentivize competitive spirit, the championship offers a substantial prize pool of Rs 2.3 lakh. The winning team will receive Rs 1 lakh, while the runner-up will be awarded Rs 60,000. Additionally, the teams finishing in third and fourth place will each earn Rs 15,000, ensuring recognition for top performers across the board.
Organizational Vision and Impact
Vikas Gautam, director of Elev8 India Sportz Pvt. Ltd., the organizers of AMKC, emphasized the initiative's commitment to building sustainable sports ecosystems in India. He highlighted that creating structured opportunities for athletes is crucial for long-term development. Through its Yuva Kabaddi Series, Elev8 India Sportz has already conducted over 1,400 matches and supported more than 2,500 players, alongside engaging referees and state associations nationwide.
The organizers believe that the success of grassroots sports hinges on three key elements: consistent competitive platforms, strong community identity, and credible tournament structures. The Aapli Mumbai Kabaddi Championship is designed to integrate all these components, providing a model for future sports initiatives in urban centers.
This championship not only promises thrilling kabaddi action but also represents a strategic move to nurture local talent and elevate Mumbai's position in the national sports arena.
