The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2025 has kicked off strong on JioStar with higher Opening Day TVR, a threefold digital reach increase, and 22% more watch-time driven by fan-focused innovations.
On the first night of the league, Tamil Thalaivas defeated Telugu Titans in the ‘Southern Derby’, while Puneri Paltan defeated Bengaluru Bulls in a thrilling game. The second game of the night was decided by a tie-breaker under a new rule implemented this season, marking a significant first for the league and setting the tone for an uncertain season.
On and off the mat, it was a star-studded event. Bhojpuri icon Ravi Kishan provided his unique voice to the newly launched Bhojpuri commentary feed, while sporting heroes and legends attended the National Sports Day celebrations in Vizag. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) player, Paralympic medallist Yogesh Kathuniya, famed track and field athlete Jyothi Yarraji, and legends such as Dhanraj Pillay and Pullela Gopichand were among those in attendance.
Siddharth Sharma, Head – Audience Engagement, Viewership, and Monetization Initiatives – Sports, JioStar, said, “We are thrilled with the response to the opening night of Pro Kabaddi League – 12. The Opening Day growth across TV and digital is a testament to the league’s popularity and the deep connection fans have with the sport. The dialled-up aggression and intensity this season have been another big draw for viewers, with the new tie-breaker rule already adding to the drama. Altogether, these factors clearly signal that kabaddi has cemented its place as a premier sporting property in India.”
JioStar also added various immersive broadcast elements during Season 12. Two new dugout perspectives capture the intensity and excitement on the sidelines, and a new split-screen function lets spectators watch live action with the resurrection sequence. Adding to the drama, a ‘Referee Cam’ offers a first-person view of the violence and intensity on the mat, moving between live play and bodycam viewpoints in real time.
Season 12 has already seen unparalleled aggressiveness, with more than 70% of matches concluding with a score difference of five points or fewer and four going to a tiebreaker.
