5 Pro Kabaddi League stars whose leadership makes them perfect role models

Google the meaning of the word, “leader” and this is what you get - the person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country. Slowly but surely this definition no more holds water.

In today’s day and age, a leader isn’t just defined by the way he leads; he/she has to be extremely flexible and versatile in their approach to get the best out of their teammates. After all, a leader is only as good as his/her team.

As a sport, Kabaddi demands a tremendous amount of leadership and strength of character. Some of the players part of Pro Kabaddi League are great leaders on and off the mat, and help their teammates perform better.

We look at five such leaders from the Pro Kabaddi league who are an inspiration for millions of people in the country and the world.

Anup Kumar

The U Mumba captain is a born leader on and off the mat. The manner in which he carries himself off the mat is truly what makes him a leader. He is open-minded, ready to listen and humble; traits every leader must possess.

At any press conference, the Indian captain walks around like how you and I would- without any air of arrogance about who he is. His fan following in the city of Mumbai is unparalleled.

At every post-match press conference, Anup always has numerous fans gathered outside waiting to catch a glimpse of him and if they are extremely lucky, they get a selfie with him. He makes sure he greets all his fans and does so with tremendous affection.

His approachable demeanour is what makes Anup Kumar an able leader. On the mat, Anup is a leader by virtue of his performances, having been U Mumba’s most important player throughout the history of Pro Kabaddi. In real life, Anup Kumar is a true gentleman and is a decorated police officer in his village in Gurgaon district.

He keeps his team calm throughout the match, helping give direction to the team’s focus, and is always ready to discuss strategy and improvise.

Manjeet Chhillar

Puneri Paltan have one man to thank for keeping their team consistent all through the league – their captain, Manjeet Chhilar. The Arjuna awardee is always aware and decisive on the mat.

He knows what his strengths are and sticks to them. At the same time, he is more than ready to carry out raiding responsibilities when his team isn’t having a great day.

His decision making is what makes him stand apart. He carries his heart on his sleeve and is never reluctant to air his feelings out to his teammates. This brings clarity within the team, thereby leading to improved performance.

There’s a reason why his teammates listen to him- Manjeet Chhillar averages over 100 points a season in Star Sports Pro Kabaddi. His performances act as a major source of inspiration to his teammates.

Dharmaraj Cheralathan

One of the oldest players in the league, at 41 years of age, Dharmaraj Cheralathan is also one of the finest leaders of the game. This season, he was entrusted the role of captaincy in a team that had just won Season three, Patna Pirates.

His leadership has ensured that the men in green continue to hit top form in season four, despite their star raider last season, Rohit Kumar, leaving the team.

While Dharmaraj doesn’t talk much, his optimism and observant nature help his team to perform at the highest level. He knows his teammates like the back of his hand. Cheralathan ensures he sends the right raiders for different occasions. His positivity in trying times means his team never let their heads go down when they’re trailing a game.

Rahul Chaudhari

The Telugu Titans captain doesn’t fit the role of what a traditional leader looks like, but Pro Kabaddi’s best raider knows a thing or two about leadership.

A leader can also be based on one’s consistent, excellent performances. He brings with him the highest level of quality and raiding excellence in every match he plays, creating almost a God-like aura around himself. His quality raids, day in day out can turn an average player into a good one just by mere observation and execution.

Rahul follows this simple mantra - Always show up for tomorrow’s match two notches higher than your last match. He doesn’t talk much and doesn’t really need to. His actions speak louder than his words.

Jasvir Singh

Jaipur’s go to man, Jasvir always raids like he runs the world. There's nothing more stimulating than watching someone who cares about what they do.

The greatest leaders display limitless dynamism and passion in whatever they undertake. The Pink Panthers’ captain is never shy about displaying his love for Kabaddi and truly gets involved in the game and will do whatever he can to win the game.

He doesn’t shy away from taunting his opponents and irritating them in order to put them off guard, but ensures he never goes overboard with it.

When Jasvir steps on the mat, you can spot him from a distance. His walk is very easily recognisable and instils fear into the minds of opposition defenders. He might be 32, but behaves like he started playing the game just yesterday.

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