Kabaddi Ground Measurement: Complete Guide for Standard Layout

Kabaddi Ground Measurement: Kabaddi, a fast-paced, contact team sport originating from ancient India, has gained global recognition in recent years, especially with leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) bringing it into the limelight. One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of the game is the ground measurement—the dimensions, markings, and layout that form the foundation of competitive Kabaddi. Whether you’re building a Kabaddi ground for professional, school-level, or recreational purposes, knowing the precise measurements is essential.

इस लेख में, हम भारतीय एमेच्योर कबड्डी महासंघ (AKFI) और अंतर्राष्ट्रीय कबड्डी महासंघ (IKF) द्वारा निर्धारित मानकों के अनुसार आधिकारिक कबड्डी मैदान के आकार, विस्तृत क्षेत्रों और अंकन नियमों को कवर करेंगे।

1. Official Kabaddi Ground Size and Layout

The size of a Kabaddi court differs slightly for men, women, and junior matches, though the basic structure remains consistent. The court is rectangular, with designated areas for raiders, defenders, and lines that govern gameplay.

• Men’s Kabaddi court dimensions: 13 meters (length) × 10 meters (width)

• Women’s Kabaddi court dimensions: 12 meters (length) × 8 meters (width)

• Junior Kabaddi court dimensions: 11 meters (length) × 8 meters (width)

The ground is divided into two equal halves, with each team occupying one side. All measurements include a 1-meter margin on each side for safety and referee movement.

2. Important Lines and Zones on a Kabaddi Ground

कबड्डी कोर्ट को कई प्रमुख चिह्नों द्वारा परिभाषित किया जाता है, each of which has a specific role in the game’s rules. These markings ensure fair play, scoring, and tactical movement.

2.1 Midline

The midline divides the court into two equal halves. It is the central reference line where the raider crosses over into the opponent’s territory. All raids begin from this line.

2.2 Baulk Line

Located at a distance of 3.75 meters from the midline on both sides, the baulk line determines the minimum distance a raider must reach in the opponent’s court. If the raider fails to cross this line, the raid is considered invalid unless he touches a defender.

2.3 Bonus Line

The bonus line lies 1 meter beyond the baulk line toward the end of the court. If a raider crosses the bonus line with one foot in the air while the other is behind the line, he earns a bonus point, provided there are 6 or more defenders on the mat.

3. Court Zones and Their Purposes

Each section within a Kabaddi court has strategic value. Zones help in regulating raids, defense, and referee decisions.

3.1 Lobby Area

The lobby is the 1-meter space on each side of the court, outside the side boundaries. It becomes active only after a defender has been touched during a raid. If a raider enters this space without making contact, he is declared out.

3.2 Raider’s Entry Zone

This zone is simply the raider’s home side of the court, from which he initiates a raid. Strategy begins here, including positioning and timing.

3.3 End Lines and Boundary Lines

The end lines (width-wise boundaries) and side boundary lines define the playable area. Stepping outside these lines means the player is out. The entire court, including markings, is usually drawn using lime or synthetic paint.

4. Surface and Equipment Requirements

The playing surface, safety margins, and accessories also play a crucial role in game quality and player safety.

4.1 Surface Material

कबड्डी मिट्टी, सिंथेटिक मैट या टर्फ पर खेली जा सकती है। While mud is traditional, professional tournaments now use synthetic mats for better grip, fewer injuries, and faster gameplay. The mat should be level and non-slippery.

4.2 Lighting and Ventilation (For Indoor Courts)

In indoor arenas, proper lighting (minimum 500 lux) and ventilation are necessary. This ensures visibility for players, referees, and spectators.

4.3 Player and Referee Zones

Extra space outside the court (about 1 meter) is reserved for coaches, referees, and substitutes. Technical tables for scoring and video analysis are also set up nearby.

5. Conclusion: Why Accurate Kabaddi Ground Measurement Matters

Proper ground measurement is not just about adhering to rules—it directly impacts fair play, player performance, and viewer experience. With the growing global popularity of Kabaddi, especially through professional leagues, there is a need for standardized courts across schools, training academies, and sports complexes.

चाहे आप कोई इवेंट आयोजक, कोच या उत्साही हों, सही कबड्डी कोर्ट सेटअप में निवेश करना सुनिश्चित करता है कि खिलाड़ी पेशेवर स्तर की स्थितियों में प्रशिक्षण और प्रतिस्पर्धा कर सकें। माप, चिह्नों और उपकरणों में सटीकता अंततः इस प्राचीन और रोमांचक खेल के विकास और विश्वसनीयता को बढ़ावा देती है।