Remaking Kabaddi: Participatory Action Research and Intercultural Sports in Hong Kong

This article examines the evolution of Fun with Kabaddi (2015–2024), an intercultural sports initiative in Hong Kong, through the framework of participatory action research (PAR). Designed to foster inclusive sports experiences and improve ethnic relations through community engagement, the program shifted from isolated events to sustained involvement. Innovations such as the reinterpretation of kabaddi's cultural narratives, the development of tag kabaddi, and the introduction of a kabaddi mascot addressed safety concerns and prioritized collaboration over competition. By drawing on co‐researchers’ lived experiences and reflexive practices, this study demonstrates how community‐driven redesigns can challenge academic dominance and enhance program outcomes. Although limited funding precluded comprehensive evaluation, preliminary findings indicate increased participation and reduced conflict. This research advances PAR methodology and community‐engaged scholarship by providing practical strategies for designing inclusive sports programs in ethnically diverse urban contexts.