PHOTOS: 'Breathtaking' sports action for Punjabi celebration

Among the events was a full-contact sport called kabbadi

The Prince George Annual Punjabi Cultural Family Event took place July 4 and 5 at the PGSS fields, where families gathered for a weekend celebrating Punjabi culture and community. Hosted by Guru Nanak Darbar, the event featured traditional food served throughout both days, live gatka and bhangra performances and cultural games and activities, including tug-of-war and kabaddi, a full-contact team sport that combines strength, speed, agility strategy, teamwork and lung power. Kabaddi originated in India and is especially popular in Punjab and among Punjabi communities around the world.

It's played between two teams. One player, known as the raider, crosses into the opposing team's half and attempts to tag as many defenders as possible before returning to their own side without being tackled. Here's the twist: While in the opponents' half, the raider must continuously chant "kabaddi" in a single breath to demonstrate they have not inhaled.

The defending team tries to stop the raider by tackling or holding them until they are forced to breathe or cannot return to their side of the court. Teams score points by successfully tagging opponents or stopping the raider. Kabaddi is often featured at Punjabi cultural festivals and community events, where exhibition matches or friendly tournaments showcase the traditional sport alongside music, dance and food.

It is also played professionally through leagues such as the Pro Kabaddi League.