Patiala (Punjab), Apr 4 (IANS): The first edition of World Cup Kabaddi Punjab-2010 (WCKP) championship, with nine countries participating, got off to a colourful start amid the presence of many dignitaries here Saturday evening.

Bollywood actors Dharmendra and his son Sunny Deol also participated in the function.

Declaring the tournament open, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal promised to add more focus on rural games like kabaddi in the new sports policy of the state.

The opening ceremony of this first-ever international kabaddi tournament showcased the strong cultural legacy of India through folk dances of 14 different states. Besides, spectators were regaled by Punjabi singers and comedians.

The team winning the competition will receive a cash award of Rs.1 crore, and the first runner-up will bag Rs.51 lakh. The second and third runner-up teams will take home Rs.21 and Rs.10 lakh respectively.

Besides Rs.500,000 each will be given to other participating teams.

Nine countries like Pakistan, US, Great Britain, Canada, Iran and Australia are participating in this 11-day event.