08 September,2025 08:24 PM IST | Visakhapatnam | mid-day online correspondent
The importance of supporting university-level sports and nurturing grassroots talent was central to the discussion
The thunderous energy of kabaddi reverberated through the corridors of Visakhapatnam on Monday, as Telugu Titans players engaged with young students in a special interaction session, held as part of an outreach initiative during the ongoing Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12.
The session was designed to bridge the gap between professional athletes and aspiring youngsters, and it provided a powerful platform for dialogue on kabaddi's rapid growth and its transformative impact.
The event celebrated the rise of kabaddi from rural roots to a national spectacle and highlighted the Pro Kabaddi League's pivotal role in elevating the sport to global prominence. The importance of supporting university-level sports and nurturing grassroots talent was also central to the discussion.
Speaking at the event, Telugu Titans captain Vijay Malik delivered an inspiring message. "I come from a small village, and kabaddi has transformed my life. People not only in India but also around the world know us kabaddi players because of this sport," he shared. "That recognition itself feels like a dream come true. More importantly, kabaddi has given us the strength to support our families, which I believe is the biggest achievement of all. This journey proves that if you are dedicated, even humble beginnings can take you to the global stage."
Malik, who has become a cornerstone of the Titans' squad, gave fans a thrilling reminder of his abilities during Match 19 on Sunday. With the first half drawing to a tense close, he executed a Super Raid, eliminating the Bengal Warriors' trio of Nitesh Kumar, Ankit, and Manjeet. The momentum-shifting move helped Telugu Titans clinch two vital points, and reaffirmed Malik's status as a game-changer.
Having been retained this season for Rs 51.50 lakh, Malik continues to deliver consistently. Last season, he amassed 172 raid points and 11 tackle points, underscoring his all-round brilliance. Over the course of his Pro Kabaddi League career, he has scored an impressive 709 total points, maintaining a Not Out percentage of 82.09 percent, and has registered 20 Super 10s.