Kabaddi is a sport that has been deeply ingrained in Indian culture for centuries. It is a game that requires strength, agility, and quick thinking. In recent years, the sport has gained even more popularity with the introduction of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). And one name that has become synonymous with the league is Devank Dalal.
Hailing from a small village in Haryana, Devank Dalal’s journey to kabaddi stardom is nothing short of inspirational. Born into a family with a strong military background, it was only natural for Devank to follow in his family’s footsteps. He joined the Indian Army at the young age of 18 and served the nation with utmost dedication for 8 years.
But it was during his time in the army that Devank discovered his love for kabaddi. He would often participate in inter-unit kabaddi tournaments and his exceptional skills on the mat caught the attention of his seniors. They encouraged him to pursue the sport professionally and that’s when Devank’s journey to becoming a kabaddi star began.
In 2014, Devank made his debut in the PKL with the Bengal Warriors. He quickly established himself as one of the top raiders in the league with his powerful raids and impressive scoring rate. His signature move, the ‘frog jump’, became a fan favorite and earned him the nickname ‘Froggy’ among his teammates.
But it wasn’t an easy journey for Devank. Being away from his family and the strict training regimen of the army took a toll on him. However, his determination and passion for the sport kept him going. He would often say, “Kabaddi is my love, my passion. It gives me the strength to overcome any obstacle.”
Devank’s hard work paid off when he was selected to represent India in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup. He played a crucial role in India’s victory, scoring 17 points in the final against Iran. This was a dream come true for Devank, who had always dreamt of wearing the Indian jersey and bringing glory to his country.
After a successful stint with the Bengal Warriors, Devank was signed by the Patna Pirates in 2017. He continued to impress with his performance and helped the team win the PKL title in his first season with them. He was also named the ‘Most Valuable Player’ of the season, cementing his position as one of the best raiders in the league.
Devank’s journey from the Indian Army to kabaddi stardom is an inspiration to many. His never-give-up attitude and dedication to the sport have made him a role model for aspiring kabaddi players. He has proved that with hard work and determination, one can achieve anything they set their mind to.
Today, Devank is not just a kabaddi star but also a household name in India. He has a huge fan following, especially among the youth, who see him as a symbol of hope and perseverance. He continues to represent the Patna Pirates in the PKL and is also a part of the Indian national kabaddi team.
In a recent interview, Devank reflected on his journey and said, “I am grateful for the opportunities that kabaddi has given me. It has not only fulfilled my dream of playing for my country but also provided me with a platform to showcase my talent. I am proud to be a part of the PKL and I hope to inspire more youngsters to take up the sport.”
Devank’s journey from the Indian Army to kabaddi stardom is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the sport. He has not only made his family and country proud but has also become an inspiration for many. As he continues to shine in the Pro Kabaddi League, we can only hope that his journey will motivate more youngsters to follow their dreams and make their mark in the world of kabaddi.
