Kabaddi: Women weren't going to be left out of the annual Kabaddi Cup tournament in Hastings

The beefy blokes were always going to have each other's measure at the annual Kabaddi Cup tournament in Hastings last weekend.

But the women also got into the act rather than just being spectators on the sideline well before proceedings unfolded at Elwood Park last Sunday.

"It was pretty exciting with our association organising a ladies' night before the tourney so about 400 of them had a big night," said organiser Jagdeep Judge Singh of the Hawke's Bay Indian Association-hosted tourney that beckons competitors and spectators from around the country as well as a few from overseas.

Singh said the women's function had enticed a professional dancing outfit, Gidha Group, of Hamilton, who had entertained them with traditional items.

The female contingent had engaged in activities, such as tug of war and musical chairs, and two cellphones were offered in a lucky draw.

Eight men's teams competed at the park for the first time, shifting from the traditional venue at Akina Park at the other end of the city.

"Akina Park had been booked for soccer but our community-focused event is growing so we needed more space to spread," Singh said.

"The women also wanted space for their games so we are very thankful that Elwood Park came to our rescue."

Singh said the men's tourney had lured 50 international professionals as well as referees, umpires and commentators.

"Every team got three professional players each."

The women had their own build up to the tourney in Hastings. Photo/supplied

The Punjabi format of the game pits four raiders (attackers) and four stoppers (defenders), as opposed to the "national style" in Asia where one raider has to tag one of seven stoppers before retreating to his half.

The sport originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu where it promoted the life skills of hunting and defending one's village.

There are four major variations in India, but the principles of the game remain the same, albeit traditionally shirtless blokes grappling on dirt and grass. However, nowadays players sport swanky strips and the competition is staged on indoor artificial courts.

Gura Sarhakamand, a Kabadi Club raider from Te Puke, considers his options against stoppers at Elwood Park, Hastings. Photo/Paul Taylor

Kalgidhar Sports Club, of Pukekohe, became the champions while Dasmesh Sports Club, of Te Puke, were runners-up last Sunday.

Shankar Sandma, of Kalgidhar club, was judged best raider while Damesh club member Gaggi Malla was declared the best stopper in a traditional Indian sport that has shades of touch rugby and bull rush.

The Bay association awarded Rammi Tai Singh, of Hastings, an Enfield Bullet motorcycle for his services to kabaddi.

Fans watch the annual Kabaddi Cup tournament at Elwood Park, Hastings, last Sunday. Photo/Paul Taylor

Former Hastings mayor and current National member of Parliament Lawrence Yule, Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst and Hastings Districts Council group manager Alison Banks and her husband, Mark, were among dignitaries invited to the tourney.

"Kids enjoyed themselves on a bouncy castle, we had free food and non-alcoholic drinks," Singh said.

"It was highly appreciated by the local community."