Kabaddi has always been a very popular sport in India, especially in rural areas. But since the launch of PKl in 2014, how have things changed for youIJ
Earlier Kabaddi used to be played on mud court, and youngsters from cities who wanted to play this game used to get a little scared on seeing these mud courts as they feared getting scolded by their parents for getting their clothes dirty. So the prevalence of mats for playing Kabaddi is a big change. Overall, the authorities have breathed a new life into the game by making all these changes and the game has been taken forward.
As a player, how did you react to the new rules that were introduced in Kabaddi for PKlIJ
Initially, we didn't know much about these new rules and they seemed a bit boring. But when we started playing under them, we really enjoyed ourselves. The game has changed and become more interesting.
You said the game has changed. Which are the areas in which, according to you, it has changed the mostIJ
For instance, earlier there used to be a bonus point for the raider but nothing like that for the defender. Now even they get two points for a 'Super tackle', so that's an important change. Also, earlier the referees hardly used to show cards but now are quick to use them, as a result players have become silent. Kabaddi has been made so much better with these new rules and has become a lot more interesting as a result.
It used to be believed that both strength and suppleness are equally important in this game. Do you think in this modern form of Kabaddi, strength has become more important compared to supplenessIJ
Earlier this game was mainly about power and one-on-one tackles used to be the norm. But now due to extensive television coverage by Star Sports, everyone wants to show their skills so it's no longer just about power. Moves like jumping, diving and turning have come in, making it a very diverse game.
What are the technical changes that have come into your game post the launch of PKl and are there any new tactics and strategies that you have come up withIJ
There have indeed been changes in technique. Earlier I used to look for running touch and tried to tag players while on a run. I did well in the first season with this technique but the second season was disappointing as players realised that this was my method. The coaches' keep suggesting modifications in technique as a result of which my game has undergone some changes. You may have noticed that in the past season I hardly did any running instead I constantly attacked from the corner to score. So alterations have to be made because the defence of opposing teams would figure out a way to deal with my style.
Have your methods of preparation changedIJ Have you become more careful about your diet and what you eatIJ
Absolutely. In the past I used to eat what I want without any care, especially sweets. I could easily eat upto 30-40 gulab jamuns in one go. So I was very relaxed about my diet and absolutely loved sweets, paneer and other such things. But now I am on a strict diet. I have given up eating rotis and don't even look towards sweets.
And you must be seeking the advice of nutritionists and physiotherapists as wellIJ
Yes. The experts we had with us told us what to eat and what not. They wanted us to eat more healthy foods like vegetables which initially we didn't like and thought who would take the trouble of eating ghaas-phoos. But we are feeling better now and are used to our new diet. We also have to control our weight and since it is going to be a long season it is imperative that we maintain physical fitness.
You are a vegetarian, so do you need to take dietary supplements like protein shakes and other such stuffIJ
There is no need for extra protein. We eat things like Almond, Soyabean and Chickpeas which are nutritious in themselves rather than taking protein powder. We also consume milk in good quantity.