About The Trophy
The Gandaberunda Trophy connects Karnataka's martial folklore, district pride, and kabaddi's raw endurance into one state-level tournament identity.
The legend
Why the Gandaberunda leads this trophy
The Gandaberunda is the mythical two-headed bird and official state emblem of Karnataka. In lore it embodies absolute strength — powerful enough to clutch elephants in its talons — and legendary endurance, emerging victorious after an eighteen-day battle against Sharabha.
Kabaddi carries the same spirit: raw physical power, iron grip in contact, and the stamina to endure a long-format season. Athletes on the mat are modern heirs to that heritage.
One state
Thirty-one districts, three battlegrounds
The trophy unites every district in a structured race through North, Central, and South zones toward the grand state finale in November 2026.
Opening chapter complete
North Zone in Belagavi
Harugeri hosted ten district teams from May 1–3, 2026. Bagalkot took the title, Vijayapura finished runner-up, Dharwad claimed third, and Belagavi won the fans' vote — locking North Zone's four November berths.
Published 2026-04-15 · Last updated 2026-09-04 · Author GBT Editorial Desk
Current chapter
South Zone in Mysuru
Mysuru hosts eleven district teams from September 11–13, 2026. Central Zone remains on standby. Four of twelve finale spots are filled; South and Central will decide the rest.
More to explore