From Seoni to PKL: Uday Parte’s Inspirational Journey to Jaipur Pink Panthers
Seoni, Madhya Pradesh: On June 1, as the name Uday Parte echoed through the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 auction hall, the 23-year-old raider from Seoni, Madhya Pradesh, was overwhelmed. Picked as the second most expensive player in Category D, Parte's dream was finally turning into reality.
“I wasn’t thinking much at the time; I was just taking it all in,” Uday recalled, describing the surreal moment when he was signed by his favourite team, Jaipur Pink Panthers.
A Journey That Began With His Brother
Unlike many athletes who start training in childhood, Uday’s journey began relatively late. He was introduced to kabaddi by his elder brother.
“My elder brother used to play kabaddi, and I just followed him to the ground,” he said.
What started as sibling bonding turned into a full-fledged sporting passion at age 17 while Uday was still in school. Within a few years, his determination and talent saw him rise from local tournaments in Seoni to the Junior Nationals in 2021, which paved the way for academy training and All India appearances.
Auction Day: A Life-Changing Moment
When Jaipur Pink Panthers placed their trust in Uday at the auction, it was more than a contract—it was validation.
“The team trusted me a lot. That means I have to perform, no matter what,” Uday said.
His first instinct after being picked was to share the news with those who supported him the most.
“I called my father first, then my coach,” he added.
The Coach Who Shaped His Game
Uday credits much of his development to his coach, Mahesh Gaur, a seasoned kabaddi professional who has played for Bengal Warriors, Patna Pirates, and UP Yoddhas. Gaur provided the technical training and mentorship needed to transition from domestic-level tournaments to the elite Pro Kabaddi League.
Meeting the Team and Coach
About 20 days after the auction, Uday met head coach Narender Redhu of Jaipur Pink Panthers. The encounter, he said, boosted his confidence.
“The coach motivates me a lot. He told me he trusts me and that I should just keep playing the way I do,” Uday shared.
That simple reassurance gave the young raider the belief he needed as he prepared for his PKL debut.
Learning From the Seniors
The Jaipur Pink Panthers team is rich in experience, and Uday is soaking up every bit of knowledge.
“Senior players like Nitin Rawal and Nitin Kumar Dhankar help us a lot. They guide the younger players on what to do and how to improve,” he said.
This mentorship is especially crucial for Uday, who enters the league with high expectations following his auction success.
A Dream Turned Reality
As he trains for the upcoming PKL Season 12, Uday is focused, grounded, and determined to prove himself on the mat.
“Just take God’s name, work hard, and play well—that’s my mindset,” he said.
His debut in the Jaipur Pink Panthers jersey will not only mark the beginning of his professional journey but will also symbolize the hopes and aspirations of thousands of small-town athletes. Uday Parte’s story is a testament to how talent, grit, and guidance can turn a village-raised youngster into a national-level kabaddi star.