In Dhaka on November 24, 2025, India’s women’s kabaddi team stood on top of the table once again, lifting the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup trophy after defeating Chinese Taipei 35–28 in a fascinating final at Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium. This win marks India’s second consecutive World Cup title and highlights their persistent presence in the sport.
From the very first whistle, India seemed clear: stay composed, mix aggression with discipline, and strike smart every time. They entered the tournament in formidable shape, winning group-stage matches. That unbeaten streak carried them to the semi-finals, where they beat Iran 33–21 to reach the final.
On the other side, Chinese Taipei too had an unbeaten run in the group stage, and in their semi-final, they overcame host Bangladesh 25–18 to set up the showdown with India.
When the final began, they struck first, but India’s raiders and defenders responded smartly. By halftime, India had carved out a narrow 20–16 lead. In the second half, India kept the pressure on. A three-point raid by Pushpa Rana took the score high when Chinese Taipei looked for a comeback. Though Taiwan closed in to 25–22, India’s strategy, especially their raiding and defensive discipline, held firm. In the match’s final minutes, an all-out attack against Chinese Taipei brought us the win, 35–28. The scoreboard registered the number that told a story of resilience, control, and well-executed kabaddi on the mat.
Amid the celebrations, one name stood out: 23-year-old Sanju Devi from Korba district, Chhattisgarh. In the final, she turned in an incredible 16 raid points, including a crucial four-point “super raid” that swung momentum in India’s favour. Throughout the tournament, her consistent, commanding performances had already made her the heart of the team. For her efforts, she was honoured as Player of the Tournament.
The final was more than a match; it was a statement. After the whistle, the Indian players walked around the arena carrying the tricolour — a picture of pride, unity and triumph. For many of the young spectators there, it was a moment that might spark a lifelong love for kabaddi. Dhaka Tribune+1
Beyond the trophy, this victory underlines the growing appeal and competitiveness of women’s kabaddi worldwide. Eleven countries took part in the 2025 tournament, showing that the sport is very much on the rise internationally. India Today+1
For India, the win is more than just a title: it’s proof of what can happen when discipline, teamwork, and willpower come together. For players like Sanju Devi, coming from a small village, training in modest facilities, yet playing on the world stage, this is a dream realised. And for the nation, it’s a proud reaffirmation: when India plays kabaddi, on the world stage, it still leads.
