Dhaka: After winning the title decider and being named the tournament's best player, Sanju Devi of India said, 'I waited thirteen years for this match.'
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, it has taken thirteen years for the second edition of the Women's Kabaddi World Cup to finally take place. That long wait ended in Dhaka. When India failed to organise the tournament despite announcing dates twice, Bangladesh took up the challenge and triumphed spectacularly on its very first attempt, winning everyone's hearts with an exceptionally successful event.
There were many challenges. This was the first time Bangladesh had hosted a World Cup in either men's or women's kabaddi. However, the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation not only showed courage by taking up the task but also set an example by delivering a thoroughly well-planned tournament. On Monday, the chief guest at the final, Md Mahbub-ul-Alam, Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, remarked that in a major event like this, there can be no room for compromise in areas such as venue management, athletes' accommodation, catering, transportation, and security. The Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation carried out all these responsibilities flawlessly, sending a clear message that Bangladesh is capable of hosting such competitions in the future as well.
From the very beginning, the kabaddi federation received wholehearted support from the government. Alongside significant financial sponsorship, the arrival of players and officials from all visiting teams was made completely seamless. Hotel Dhaka Regency came on board as the hospitality partner, and players from every team praised the hotel's service. With security directed and overseen by the BKF President, Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam BPM, the overall organisation ran with exceptional discipline.
The tournament, inaugurated by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, who unveiled the World Cup trophy alongside captains of eleven nations, came to a close on Monday last, leaving Bangladesh proud as a host. For ten straight days from November 15, the Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium in Mirpur celebrated a festival of kabaddi.
Crowds filled the stands for nearly every match, cheering passionately for the teams. Along with the hosts, India, Iran, and Chinese Taipei captivated spectators with their performances. T Sports broadcasted the matches live, which significantly boosted the popularity of women's kabaddi in the country.
S M Nawaz Shohag, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation, also expressed satisfaction by saying that by hosting the World Cup, they have been able to prove their capability. The women's team completed the achievement by playing superbly and winning a medal. Everyone has contributed to this success, and they are grateful to them. With the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Council, all involved with the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation and the International Kabaddi Federation, they have been able to host this event successfully.
Three continents came together in one place -- from Asia: Bangladesh, India, Thailand, Iran, Nepal, and Chinese Taipei; from Europe: Germany and Poland; and from Africa: Kenya, Uganda, and Zanzibar -- giving the tournament both diversity and depth.
Teams first played in two groups on a league basis. The group champions and runners-up advanced to the semi-finals. Finally, a dramatic and exciting final brought the tournament to a joyous close. On the last day, all teams were present at the venue. With dancing, celebration, and warm farewells, they bid goodbye to Bangladesh.