Wrestling holds a special place in Indian sports culture, with its roots going back to ancient times when it was practiced in traditional akharas (wrestling arenas). Over the years, India has become one of the top nations in wrestling, with several world-class athletes making their mark on the international stage.

Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat are two of India’s most successful wrestlers. Both have won multiple international medals, including gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships. Bajrang’s bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was a proud moment for Indian wrestling, while Vinesh continues to dominate in her weight category.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has been instrumental in promoting the sport, organizing national competitions and supporting athletes with world-class coaching and facilities. Haryana, a state known for producing top wrestlers, remains the hub of Indian wrestling, with other states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra also contributing to the sport’s growth.

Indian wrestlers have consistently performed well at the World Wrestling Championships, with Ravi Kumar Dahiya winning a silver medal in 2021. The future looks bright for Indian wrestling, with young talents like Anshu Malik and Deepak Punia showing promise on the international stage.

Wrestling is also popular among women, with the Phogat sisters—Geeta, Babita, and Ritu—paving the way for future generations. Their success has inspired a wave of young female wrestlers, particularly in rural India, where the sport is seen as a path to empowerment and success.

With continued investment and support, Indian wrestling is poised to maintain its status as a powerhouse in the sport, with hopes of more Olympic success in the future.