June 12, 2025, Mumbai: In a purpose-driven initiative, Kabaddi franchise, U Mumba joined hands with the Swades Foundation – as their social impact partners – to bring solar-powered lighting to 160 rural homes in Maharashtra. To mark the culmination of this impact, U Mumba’s Ajit Chouhan visited Badagi village in Nashik’s Peth Taluka, where he ceremonially switched on the first solar unit installed under the program at one of Swades Foundation’s Villages.
As part of the initiative rolled out during Season 11 of the Pro Kabaddi League, the team committed to electrifying 15 homes for every Super Tackle and 10 homes for every Super Raid—turning on-field performances into tangible social impact. And the response was that Chouhan was one of PKL’s top five raiders, he received a warm welcome from enthusiastic children and families who gathered to celebrate the arrival of solar power that is changing their lives and their kabaddi hero.
Channeling on-field milestones into real-world transformation and championing rural empowerment through renewable energy exemplifies U Mumba has used sport to drive meaningful social change.
The response on the ground was equally powerful. Chouhan, one of PKL’s top five raiders from last season, received a rousing welcome from children and families in the electrified villages. Locals gathered in large numbers to celebrate the arrival of solar power that is not only going to transform their daily lives but also cementing Chouhan’s status as a hometown hero.
“At U Mumba, we believe the impact we create off the mat is just as important as what we do on it. Through our partnership with Swades Foundation in Season 11, every Super Raid and Super Tackle became more than just a stat—it became a step toward lighting up lives. We’re proud to have helped bring solar power to 160 rural homes, and this is just the beginning of what sport can spark beyond the game,” said Suhail Chandhok, CEO, U Mumba.
“This partnership with U Mumba beautifully bridges the worlds of sport and social impact. Every Super Tackle and Super Raid didn’t just energize fans—it brought clean, renewable light into rural homes that need it most. We are proud to work with a team that plays with heart on the field and stands for purpose off it. Star player Ajit Chouhan from U Mumba lighting up a home in Badagi was a special moment for the entire community – and will go a long way specially in inspiring the youth.” – Mangesh Wange, CEO, Swades Foundation
This is the second consecutive season of impact-led collaboration between U Mumba and Swades Foundation. In 2023, the partnership drove a large-scale plantation initiative under Swades’ New Orchard Programme, with 4,300 fruit tree saplings planted across Raigad, aimed at increasing green cover and farmer income.
With sport as the spark, the U Mumba and Swades Foundation alliance continues to redefine how franchises can contribute to lasting, measurable change on the ground—one match at a time.
