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
North Zone in Belagavi
The journey begins at Harugeri with ten district teams across twenty-eight matches from May 1–3, 2026 — where local grounds meet the professional stage.
Published 2026-04-15 · Last updated 2026-04-29 · Author GBT Editorial Desk
What is next
Central, South, and the finale
Squad reveals, fixtures, and venues for Central and South will follow as the statewide calendar unfolds. Stay close to the match centre for integrated fan engagement on live days.
More to explore