Adabala Manikanta, born on May 10, 2004, in the bustling town of Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, has always had a passion for sports. Growing up in a supportive family, with his father Nookaraju working diligently as a building contractor and his mother Veeraveni managing the home, he found inspiration in his surroundings. His elder sister, Vinitha, played a vital role in encouraging his ambitions, even if she didn’t share his passion for kabaddi. Manikanta's journey into the world of kabaddi began when he was just 13 years old. Inspired by a senior player, he quickly embraced the sport and honed his skills. Now, as a Left Corner Defender, he has developed a knack for the ankle hold, a technique he admires and practices earnestly. Under the guidance of his coach, Saiprasad, he’s been training at Sai Club in Kakinada, where his dedication shines through. His journey has already led him to notable competitions like the South Zone Inter-University Games where he represented Adikavi Nannaya University from 2022 to 2024, as well as participating in the Junior State Meet in East Godavari. Looking ahead, Manikanta dreams of leaving his mark in the Pro Kabaddi League, where he hopes to showcase his skills on a larger stage. With his determination and love for the game, there’s no doubt that he’s on the path to making great memories and achieving his aspirations in kabaddi.