The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) has announced the addition of Purvanchal Panthers as its 11th franchise ahead of Season 2, marking another milestone in the league’s rapid growth and regional expansion.
The move underscores the growing investment interest in professional kabaddi and strengthens UPKL’s vision of building a state-wide sporting ecosystem rooted in community, opportunity, and pride.
The new franchise is co-owned by Arnav Gupta, Director of Citiyano De Resource Exim Pvt. Ltd., and Aradhya Gupta, Director of Citiyano De Firenze. Representing the culturally rich Purvanchal region of eastern Uttar Pradesh, the team aims to blend sporting excellence with regional identity, giving local players a platform to compete and progress at higher levels of the game.
The team’s emblem, a fierce panther flanked by two leaping cats, symbolises strength, agility, and unity. The owners have emphasised that the franchise’s mission extends beyond competition, focusing on grassroots engagement and youth development to help build kabaddi’s next generation of talent from Purvanchal.
Sambhav Jain, Founder and Director of SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt. Ltd., the organisers of UPKL, welcomed the new franchise and said, “With every new team, UPKL strengthens its mission of combining sport, culture, and opportunity. The inclusion of the Purvanchal Panthers adds both business dynamism and regional representation to the league. What truly sets UPKL apart is the diversity of its ownership from entrepreneurs and professionals to cultural figures each bringing a unique perspective and commitment to building kabaddi at the grassroots. We’re delighted to welcome Arnav and Aradhya to the UPKL family; their energy, vision, and passion for the sport will add a new dimension to the upcoming season.”
Arnav Gupta, Director of Citiyano De Resource Exim Pvt. Ltd., added, “Joining the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League is more than a business decision; it’s about celebrating the strength and spirit of Purvanchal. Watching Season 1, I was amazed by the raw talent and professionalism the league showcased. Through the Purvanchal Panthers, we aim to give our region’s athletes a platform to shine and make Purvanchal proud.”
Aradhya Gupta, Director of Citiyano De Firenze, shared, “Kabaddi reflects the energy and resilience of India’s heartland. With the Purvanchal Panthers, we want to channel that same spirit through professionalism, inclusivity, and passion. UPKL is a platform that unites communities and empowers young talent, and we’re proud to represent Purvanchal on that stage.”
The player auction for Season 2 will be held on November 3 in Noida, followed by the start of the tournament on December 25, 2025, also in Noida. With 11 franchises now confirmed, UPKL Season 2 promises to be the most competitive and widely followed edition yet, featuring top-tier talent, expanded regional participation, and a continued push toward making Uttar Pradesh a leading hub for kabaddi in India.
