Kabaddi to the rescue

Jasmine Singh

Kamaljit Hayre, commissioner, World Kabaddi League 2017 to be held in Jalandhar from October 24, feels sports is the only thing that can tear the youth away from drugs.

A sports enthusiast, a Punjabi film producer, a hotelier, Kamaljit is an NRI from England who is saddened to see the youth of Punjab going astray. “The new generation of NRIs doesn’t want to come back to Punjab, and the only way I think they would be interested is if we offer something, something like World Kabaddi League.”

The upcoming season of this league will see participation from six clubs, namely California Eagle, United Singhs, Royal Kings, Khalsa Warrior, Punjab Tigers, Malvaukie Wolf. The idea behind this league is to raise the level of Kabaddi. “I would like to see this game being introduced in Olympics. Since this time the League will be aired live in 32 countries, the players from Punjab and abroad will get a decent exposure.” The finals of the League will take place in Mohali. 

In order to make kabaddi watch able for women as well, proper dress code has been assigned to the players. “This sport is not just for men, we would ideally want women to watch it too,” shares Kamaljit who also turned a producer with the Punjabi film based on hockey-Khiddo Khundi. 

“I have been following Punjabi entertainment industry closely, and I am aware as to what kind of films are making business. But, I wanted to produce a film with a strong storyline, which was sports-centric and inspiring too. I am also producing another Punjabi film, Aalhna, starring Ninja, which is a remake of Marathi film Ventilator.”  

A fitness freak, who likes to alternate gym with regular walks and a run, Kamaljit feels that youngsters in Punjab need distraction, “sports and entertainment are good distractions; however, entertainment should be healthy and inspiring.”