The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in India is not only about fierce competition on the mat but also the business acumen behind the teams. Each PKL franchise is more than just a group of players; it’s a brand, a symbol of regional pride, and often, a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its owners. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the backgrounds of the team owners who have not only invested in Kabaddi but have also contributed to the league’s growth and popularity.
The Owners and Their Backgrounds
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Bengal Warriors
Bengal Warriors – Futur Group
The Bengal Warriors, a stalwart in the Pro Kabaddi League, are owned by the Futur Group. Founded by Kishore Biyani, the Futur Group is a well-known Indian conglomerate with diversified interests in retail, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), and financial services. Kishore Biyani’s visionary approach to business is reflected in the way he supports and nurtures the Bengal Warriors. The team not only enjoys financial stability but also benefits from the corporate experience and network that the Futur Group brings to the table.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Bengaluru Bulls
Bengaluru Bulls – Kosmic Global Media
The Bengaluru Bulls, a prominent team in PKL, are owned by Kosmic Global Media. This ownership represents a unique blend of sports and media. Kosmic Global Media is a leading media and entertainment company in India, known for its innovative approach to content creation and distribution. Their investment in the Bengaluru Bulls has been instrumental in expanding the reach and popularity of the team and the league itself. This partnership underscores the potent combination of sports and entertainment in the world of Kabaddi.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Dabang Delhi KC
Dabang Delhi KC – Radha Kapoor Khanna
Dabang Delhi KC is owned by Radha Kapoor Khanna, a dynamic entrepreneur and the daughter of Rana Kapoor, the founder of Yes Bank. Radha Kapoor Khanna’s foray into the world of Kabaddi showcases her commitment to not only promoting sports but also fostering the growth of regional sports in India. Her leadership has provided the team with not just financial stability but also strategic guidance. The team’s name, “Dabang,” which translates to “Fearless,” reflects the kind of ownership that encourages bold moves on and off the Kabaddi mat.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Gujarat Fortune Giants
Gujarat Fortune Giants – Gautam Adani
The Gujarat Fortune Giants, a formidable team in PKL, are owned by none other than Gautam Adani, the chairman and founder of the Adani Group. This ownership is symbolic of the growing interest of industrial giants in the world of sports. Gautam Adani’s leadership and business acumen have propelled the Gujarat Fortune Giants to success. His investment in the team demonstrates the fusion of corporate prowess and sportsmanship, enriching the league and the sport of Kabaddi as a whole.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Haryana Steelers
Haryana Steelers – JSW Sports
The Haryana Steelers, representing the state with pride, are owned by JSW Sports, a division of the JSW Group, one of India’s leading steelmakers. The team’s name resonates with the region’s strong steel industry. JSW Sports’ ownership highlights the corporate world’s recognition of the potential of Kabaddi as a sport. Their involvement not only provides the team with financial backing but also contributes to the broader development of sports in India, aligning with the nation’s aspirations for sporting excellence.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Jaipur Pink Panthers
Jaipur Pink Panthers – Abhishek Bachchan
The Jaipur Pink Panthers, one of the most recognizable teams in PKL, are owned by Abhishek Bachchan, a popular Bollywood actor and producer. Abhishek’s involvement in the league brings a touch of glamour and stardom, attracting fans beyond traditional Kabaddi enthusiasts. His passion for sports and the Jaipur Pink Panthers is evident, and his ownership has added a unique dimension to the team’s identity. Under his guidance, the team continues to be a force to reckon with in the league.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Patna Pirates
Patna Pirates – Rajesh V. Shah
The Patna Pirates, with a rich history of success in PKL, are owned by Rajesh V. Shah, the chairman of Mukund Enterprises. Rajesh Shah’s ownership signifies the industrial might backing the team. Mukund Enterprises is a leading Indian manufacturer of alloy, stainless steel, and heavy industrial equipment. This partnership underscores how businesses from various sectors are recognizing the potential of Kabaddi as a platform for regional sports and talent development.
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Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Puneri Paltan
Puneri Paltan – Rajesh Wadhawan
The Puneri Paltan, representing Pune’s pride, is owned by Rajesh Wadhawan, the chairman of Wadhawan Holdings, a privately held Indian investment company. Rajesh Wadhawan’s ownership demonstrates the diversity of interests among team owners in PKL. His investment contributes not only to the Puneri Paltan’s growth but also to the broader sports ecosystem in Pune and India.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Tamil Thalaivas
Tamil Thalaivas – Sachin Tendulkar and Nimbus Sport
The Tamil Thalaivas, a team with a passionate fan base, is co-owned by cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar and Nimbus Sport, a sports marketing, and management company. Sachin Tendulkar’s association with the team adds an iconic touch to the league, drawing fans from cricket to Kabaddi. Nimbus Sport’s expertise ensures that the team is not just successful on the mat but also well-managed off it. This unique partnership symbolizes the convergence of cricketing charisma and sports management proficiency in PKL.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Telugu Titans
Telugu Titans – Greenko Group, NED Group, and Core Green Group
The Telugu Titans are jointly owned by a consortium of three Indian companies: Greenko Group, NED Group, and Core Green Group. This collaborative ownership brings together interests in renewable energy, infrastructure, and education. Their investment in the Telugu Titans demonstrates the diversification of ownership backgrounds in PKL and reflects their commitment to nurturing sports talent in India.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League U Mumba
U Mumba – Ronnie Screwvala
U Mumba, one of the league’s powerhouses, is owned by Ronnie Screwvala, the co-founder of UTV Motion Pictures and a leading Indian philanthropist. Ronnie’s ownership showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to promoting sports. Under his guidance, U Mumba has become a formidable team in PKL, aligning entertainment and sports for a wider audience.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League UP Yoddha
Owner: UP Yoddha – GMR Group
UP Yoddha is owned by the GMR Group, a privately held Indian infrastructure conglomerate. Their involvement in the league reflects the corporate world’s interest in supporting and promoting sports. The GMR Group’s ownership provides UP Yoddha with not only financial stability but also access to extensive resources, strengthening their presence in the league.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Bengal Warriors – Futur Group:
- The Futur Group, under the leadership of Kishore Biyani, has a significant presence in the Indian retail industry. They operate popular retail chains like Big Bazaar and Central.
- In addition to retail, the group has diversified interests in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) and financial services. They have ventured into various businesses to become a well-rounded conglomerate.
- Their support for the Bengal Warriors not only contributes financially but also enhances the team’s brand through their extensive retail network.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Bengaluru Bulls – Kosmic Global Media:
- Kosmic Global Media is a prominent player in India’s media and entertainment sector. They are involved in television production, film distribution, and event management.
- As the owners of the Bengaluru Bulls, their media expertise plays a crucial role in promoting Kabaddi and increasing the team’s visibility.
- They have successfully leveraged their media platforms to engage fans and attract a wider audience to the sport.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Dabang Delhi KC – Radha Kapoor Khanna:
- Radha Kapoor Khanna is an accomplished entrepreneur and the daughter of Rana Kapoor, the founder of Yes Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks.
- Her success extends beyond the world of banking, as she’s made a name for herself in the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Radha Kapoor Khanna’s ownership brings not only financial backing but also strategic thinking to Dabang Delhi KC.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Gujarat Fortune Giants – Gautam Adani:
- Gautam Adani is a renowned industrialist and the chairman of the Adani Group, a conglomerate with diverse interests including ports, logistics, energy, and infrastructure.
- His involvement in Kabaddi signifies the interest of industrial giants in sports and regional sports development.
- Under Gautam Adani’s ownership, the Gujarat Fortune Giants have gained prominence in the league.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Haryana Steelers – JSW Sports:
- JSW Sports is a subsidiary of the JSW Group, a major Indian steel conglomerate. JSW Group has operations in steel, energy, infrastructure, and more.
- The partnership between JSW and Haryana Steelers demonstrates how a traditionally industrial conglomerate can contribute to sports development.
- The team’s success has been propelled by JSW Sports’ resources and commitment to nurturing Kabaddi talent in Haryana.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Jaipur Pink Panthers – Abhishek Bachchan:
- Abhishek Bachchan, a prominent Bollywood actor and producer, is not only a team owner but also a vocal supporter of the Jaipur Pink Panthers.
- His passion for sports and commitment to Kabaddi has brought star power to the league, attracting fans from both the entertainment and sports worlds.
- Abhishek’s presence at matches and his active involvement in team affairs have made the Jaipur Pink Panthers one of the most recognizable franchises in PKL.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Patna Pirates – Rajesh V. Shah:
- Rajesh V. Shah, the chairman of Mukund Enterprises, comes from a background deeply rooted in manufacturing, particularly in alloy, stainless steel, and heavy industrial equipment.
- His ownership of the Patna Pirates signifies the support of the industrial sector for Kabaddi.
- Under his leadership, the Patna Pirates have achieved considerable success in the league.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Puneri Paltan – Rajesh Wadhawan:
- Rajesh Wadhawan, the chairman of Wadhawan Holdings, is a private investor with interests in various industries, including real estate and finance.
- His ownership of the Puneri Paltan highlights the diversity of ownership backgrounds in PKL.
- Wadhawan’s involvement contributes to the team’s development and also adds to the league’s overall business dynamics.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Tamil Thalaivas – Sachin Tendulkar and Nimbus Sport:
- Sachin Tendulkar, often regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, brings unparalleled star power to the Tamil Thalaivas.
- His co-ownership, alongside Nimbus Sport, a sports marketing and management company, combines cricketing charisma with sports management expertise.
- Together, they have enhanced the team’s profile and marketability.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League Telugu Titans – Greenko Group, NED Group, and Core Green Group:
- The consortium that owns the Telugu Titans comprises three Indian companies with varied interests, including renewable energy, infrastructure, and education.
- Their collaborative ownership showcases a commitment to supporting Kabaddi and fostering sports talent.
- The Telugu Titans have benefited from the consortium’s collective resources and business networks.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League U Mumba – Ronnie Screwvala:
- Ronnie Screwvala, the co-founder of UTV Motion Pictures and a noted philanthropist, has invested his entrepreneurial spirit in U Mumba.
- His ownership has not only provided financial stability but has also allowed the team to engage with fans effectively through innovative strategies.
- Under his guidance, U Mumba has emerged as a dominant force in the league.
Owners Of Pro Kabaddi League UP Yoddha – GMR Group:
- GMR Group is a prominent Indian infrastructure conglomerate with a diverse portfolio that includes airports, energy, and urban infrastructure.
- Their ownership of UP Yoddha reflects the corporate world’s growing interest in supporting and promoting sports.
- The team benefits from the group’s substantial resources and expertise in infrastructure management.
The Pro Kabaddi League has not only transformed the sport but has also opened doors for entrepreneurs and industrialists to invest in and promote regional sports. The diverse backgrounds of team owners, ranging from entertainment moguls to steel tycoons and cricketing legends, have contributed to the league’s success.
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These owners have not just put their money into Kabaddi; they’ve infused the sport with their business expertise, turning it into a powerful brand. As the league continues to grow, the collaboration between sports and business in India becomes more evident, showing that Kabaddi is not just a game but a platform for entrepreneurial visionaries to shine.
