Ours is a crusade. Fighting thick and deepset walls of perception about kabaddi in our own country. Breaking all stereotypes about the sport. Exposing the masses to its new international avatar. Mumbai was what it promised it to be the perfect launching pad for the resurrection of kabaddi.

By all standards, it was a spectacular, blockbuster start for the Star Sports Pro Kabaddi league. India's unique, heritage sport, played in every corner of the country, is now shining on primetime television.

The glamour quotient that eluded the sport for years, is now a reality, for, sitting in the first row on opening night were some of the most recognisable heroes of the country. All in support of the grit, agility and strength of the new heroes of Indian sport- The kabaddi kings.

With Abhishek Bachchan owning the Jaipur franchise, Bollywood superstars Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai, were strong contenders for best cheerleaders as they donned their team uniforms in support of the Pink Panthers. While the Pink Panthers campaign in the league started with a defeat, the determination and aggression of their hugely experienced captain, the charismatic Navneet Gautam, indicates better times to come.

The magnificent new NSCI Indoor stadium, reverberated with the vociferous support of U Mumba fans.