Kabaddi Kabaddi (Nepali: कबड्डी कबड्डी), released on November 27, 2015, is the second installment of the Kabaddi film franchise. Directed by Ram Babu Gurung, this film builds upon the foundation laid by Kabaddi (2013) and continues the story of Kaji, a flawed but endearing protagonist navigating unrequited love, rural traditions, and his own inner conflicts.

The movie skillfully blends romance, political satire, and village humor, making it one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed Nepali films of its time.

Basic Film Information

Plot Summary

Following the events of Kabaddi, Kaji (Dayahang Rai) remains hopelessly in love with Maiya (Rishma Gurung), his cousin who still dreams of leaving village life behind. Despite numerous attempts to woo her, Maiya is uninterested in Kaji, who represents the very rural lifestyle she seeks to escape.

Enter Bam Kaji (Saugat Malla), a more educated and sophisticated cousin returning from Kathmandu to support his father’s local political ambitions. He is confident, charming, and quickly forms a bond with Maiya, setting up a love triangle fueled by jealousy, tradition, and unspoken emotions.

Major Themes:

• Unrequited Love: Kaji’s unending affection for Maiya, despite repeated rejection.

• Romantic Rivalry: The contrast between rural Kaji and urban Bam Kaji.

• Politics in the Village: Elections act as a backdrop, reflecting power struggles.

• Societal Expectations vs. Personal Desire: A recurring theme in the franchise.

Cast and Performances

Music and Soundtrack

The film’s music, composed by Kali Prasad Baskota, played a major role in its emotional and commercial appeal.

 Hit Songs:

1. “Lappan Chhappan” – An upbeat and catchy tune that became a pop culture favorite.

2. “Maya Ko Badal” – A soulful ballad that reflects Kaji’s emotional journey.

3. “Saila Maya” – Popular folk-inspired track highlighting Mustang’s cultural roots.

These tracks reinforced the film’s deep emotional connection with Nepali audiences and are still performed and streamed widely today.

Awards and Recognition

8th Dcine Awards 2016

• Best Character Actor – Maotse Gurung

• Jury Award – Kabaddi Kabaddi

Critical Reception:

• Applauded for balanced humor and emotion

• Praised for progressive character writing, especially Kaji’s development

• Noted for subtle critique of politics and patriarchy

Box Office Performance

With a modest budget of NPR 10 million, Kabaddi Kabaddi became one of the biggest Nepali box office successes, grossing over NPR 103 million.

Impact:

• Became one of the top-grossing Nepali films of the decade

• Attracted both urban and rural audiences

• Cemented the Kabaddi franchise as a mainstay in Nepali entertainment

 Cultural Significance and Legacy

1. Evolving Love Story

• Kaji grows from a naive lover to a more emotionally mature character, giving depth to the story.

2. Modern vs. Traditional Conflict

• Bam Kaji’s urban identity contrasts sharply with Kaji’s traditional persona, mirroring Nepal’s cultural shifts.

3. Foundation for Kabaddi Universe

The film’s success led to:

• Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi (2019)

• Kabaddi 4: The Final Match (2022) — the highest-grossing Nepali film of all time

 

Trivia

• Saugat Malla was a surprise casting choice and brought depth to Bam Kaji’s urban charm.

• The character of Kaji was inspired by many real-life rural youths facing love, rejection, and lack of opportunity.

• The phrase “Kabaddi Kabaddi” is symbolic—just like the game, life and love are about chase, strategy, and endurance.

Conclusion

Kabaddi Kabaddi (2015) is a rare sequel that not only matches but surpasses the charm of its predecessor. It manages to be funny, emotional, socially relevant, and profoundly human. With relatable characters, timeless music, and sharp direction, it remains a milestone in modern Nepali cinema.

If you’ve watched Kabaddi, then Kabaddi Kabaddi is essential viewing — a story that continues the chase for love, but this time with deeper introspection.