'Dangal': Hyderabad braces up to host 24th Kesari Wrestling Championship
The championship boasts international referees and acclaimed wrestlers who will not only participate but also oversee the matches, ensuring a high level of competition
By Newsmeter Network Published on 17 Jan 2024 9:30 AM GMTRepresentational Image.
Hyderabad: Hyderabad is gearing up for the 24th Kesari Wrestling Championship, a prominent event coinciding with Republic Day celebrations.
Scheduled for January 27 and 28 at Barkas Grounds, the tournament is organized by the Samaj Sewak Welfare Association in collaboration with Bamas Akhada Barkas.
The championship boasts international referees and acclaimed wrestlers who will not only participate but also oversee the matches, ensuring a high level of competition. Wrestling enthusiasts can anticipate a showcase of skill and prowess as the competitions unfold across various weight categories.
Highlighting the significance of the event, a representative from the World Professional Wrestling Hub expressed their commitment by attending the championship. Their presence underscores the global recognition that the Hyderabad Kesari Wrestling Championship has garnered in the wrestling community.
The older quarters of Hyderabad are steeped in the tradition of mud-pit akhadas, established by renowned pahelwans who have left their mark on championships with titles such as Telangana Kesari, Telangana State Champions, and Hyderabad Kesari. These akhadas serve as training grounds where aspiring wrestlers, mainly boys, undergo rigorous daily zor (practice) sessions. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, they learn daavs (techniques) that are essential for success in the wrestling arena.
The training regimen incorporates customary methods, emphasizing the importance of traditional exercises. Dand (similar to dips), baithak (squats) with hasil (iron ring), and rassa (rope) form integral components of the wrestlers' daily routines. This disciplined approach ensures that athletes develop the strength and agility required for competitive wrestling.
The commitment to tradition extends beyond physical training. Each day, trainers involve sportsmen in leveling the red mud ground with spades, setting the stage for the friendly kushti (wrestling) matches that take place in the akhadas. This practice not only harks back to the roots of wrestling but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the participants.
As the 24th Hyderabad Kesari Wrestling Championship approaches, the city anticipates a display of not only physical prowess but also the rich heritage and traditions that have shaped the sport in this region.