India has been producing some of the greatest professional wrestlers in the world. From the great Khali to the legendary Kavita Devi, India has seen an influx of talented wrestlers who have put the country on the map in the world of wrestling.
These wrestlers have made a name for themselves by competing in international tournaments and have won numerous titles for the nation. We will take a look at some of the best wrestlers in India that have made their mark in the world of professional wrestling.
We will look at their achievements, career highlights, and their influence on the sport. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best wrestlers in India.
1. Vinesh Phogat
Vinesh Phogat is an Indian wrestler who has made history in the sport. She is the first Indian woman wrestler to win gold at both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.
This is a remarkable accomplishment as it is the highest level of competition for wrestlers in the region. Her success has also been recognized on the world stage, as she is the only Indian woman wrestler to win multiple medals at the World Wrestling Championships.
This is an outstanding achievement that speaks to her hard work and dedication to the sport. Phogat is an inspiration to many and a true role model for female athletes.
Her success is the result of her commitment to her sport and her determination to reach the highest levels of competition. Her accomplishments are a testament to her skill and perseverance, and she is certainly an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
2. Bajrang Punia
Bajrang Punia is an Indian freestyle wrestler, who competes in the 65-kg weight category. He has achieved great success in wrestling, which is evident in his impressive medal collection.
At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Punia won a bronze medal by defeating Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov with a 8–0 margin. He is the only Indian wrestler to have won four medals at the World Wrestling Championships.
Furthermore, he is the first Indian wrestler to win back-to-back gold medals at the Asian Games, and the first Indian wrestler to win a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.Punia’s accomplishments have earned him the respect and admiration of the wrestling community.
He is a source of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers, having achieved success on the international stage despite the limited resources available to him.
He is a role model, not only for aspiring wrestlers but also for all young Indians who are striving to reach their goals despite the odds. Punia’s determination and hard work have made him an icon in the Indian sports world.
3. Sakshi Malik
Sakshi Malik is an Indian freestyle wrestler who rose to fame when she became the first Indian female wrestler to win a medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. She won the bronze medal in the 58 kg category, making history and inspiring women across India and the world.
Malik’s victory was especially significant for Indian women, as it marked the first time an Indian female athlete had achieved success in the Olympics. She has become an icon for female athletes and her success has encouraged more Indian women to pursue a career in sports.
Malik’s medal win was a remarkable achievement, as she was the first Indian woman to win a medal in a sport other than shooting or tennis. Her feat has been widely celebrated in India, with many organizations and individuals praising her for her achievement.
Her success has also served to inspire and motivate women all over the world to strive for excellence. Her Olympic success has brought much pride to the nation and has also raised the profile of women in sports.
Malik’s medal win has been a major milestone for Indian women, and she has become an inspiration for many aspiring female athletes.
She is a shining example of what is possible with hard work and dedication, and she has shown the world that Indian women are capable of achieving great things.
4. Ravi Kumar Dahiya
Ravi Kumar Dahiya is a highly acclaimed Indian freestyle wrestler who has achieved great success in the sport. He won a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 57 kg category, making him the first Indian wrestler to win an Olympic medal in the men’s category since 1996.
Prior to his Olympic success, Dahiya also won a bronze medal at the 2019 World Wrestling Championships and is a three-time Asian champion. His impressive achievements have made him one of the most successful Indian wrestlers of all time.
Dahiya is also known by his two nicknames, Ravi Kumar or Ravi Dahiya, and is admired by many in India for his athletic prowess.
5. Geeta Phogat
Geeta Phogat is a true pioneer in the Indian wrestling scene.
Not only is she the first Indian female wrestler to have qualified for the Olympic Summer Games, but she also made history in 2010 by becoming the first wrestler from India to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.
This was a major moment for Indian wrestling, and Geeta Phogat has since gone on to inspire many aspiring wrestlers in India. Since 2010, Geeta Phogat has become a well-known name in India and beyond.
As a female wrestler, she has faced many challenges and has persevered despite the odds. She has become an inspiration for many young girls and women in India and has been a role model in the country for female wrestlers.
In 2019, she was awarded the Arjuna Award, the highest award in Indian sport, and it is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. Geeta Phogat is a true source of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers in India.
She is a symbol of strength and determination, and her achievements have opened the door for many more Indian female wrestlers to follow in her footsteps.
Her success has paved the way for a new generation of female wrestlers in India and she is an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
6. Yogeshwar Dutt
Yogeshwar Dutt is an Indian freestyle wrestler who has achieved great success in his career. He won a bronze medal in the 60 kg category at the 2012 Summer Olympics and was subsequently awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2013.
This prestigious award is given in recognition of outstanding achievements in various fields.In addition to his Olympic success, Dutt has also had a very successful career in the Commonwealth Games.
He won gold medals at the 2010 and 2014 editions of the tournament in the 60 kg category, cementing his status as one of India’s most successful wrestlers. Overall, Yogeshwar Dutt is an inspirational figure for Indian athletes.
His impressive achievements have earned him much respect and admiration from fans around the world. He is a true testament to the idea that hard work and dedication can lead to great success.
7. Deepak Punia
Naib Subedar Deepak Punia is an inspiring figure in the world of wrestling. He is an Indian freestyle wrestler and also a Junior Commissioned Officer in the Indian Army.
Deepak has achieved a great feat at the 2019 World Wrestling Championships, where he secured a silver medal at the freestyle 86 kg category. His incredible performance earned him a spot in the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Deepak was born in the Jhajjar district of Haryana and hails from a humble background. His achievement sets an example of hard work and dedication for many aspiring wrestlers and is a source of inspiration for fellow athletes.
His rise to fame and success is a result of the countless hours of hard work and determination that he has put in over the years. Deepak is a true hero and a role model for many, and his success is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.
8. Udey Chand
Udey Chand was a legendary Indian wrestler and coach, who made history by becoming the first individual to win a world championship medal from independent India.
He was a true pioneer of Indian wrestling, and his achievements had a huge impact on the development of Indian wrestling. Udey Chand was a successful wrestler in his own right, winning many titles during his career.
He was also an accomplished wrestling coach, helping many of India’s future wrestling stars reach their potential. His influence on Indian wrestling was so great that he was awarded the first Arjuna Award in wrestling in 1961 by the Government of India.
This award is given to athletes who have achieved extraordinary success in their field, and Chand was the first wrestler to receive it. Udey Chand’s legacy lives on to this day. He has inspired generations of wrestlers and coaches with his dedication and commitment to the sport.
His success and influence have made him a true icon in Indian wrestling, and his achievements will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
9. Babita Kumari
Babita Kumari Phogat is an Indian wrestler who has achieved great success in her career. She won the gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and two silver medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Additionally, she earned a bronze medal at the 2012 World Wrestling Championships. In 2019, Phogat decided to pursue a career in politics and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. This move is seen as a positive step towards increasing the number of female voices in politics.
Her success in sports is an inspiration to many young girls in India, and her political career is likely to be just as successful. Phogat is a role model for many, and her dedication to her sport and her country are commendable.
10. The Great Khali
Dalip Singh Rana, also known as The Great Khali, is a retired Indian professional wrestler and wrestling promoter. He is most famous for his time in WWE, where he made history by becoming the first Indian-born World Heavyweight Champion.
Born in Punjab, India, Khali began his career in 2000 in All Pro Wrestling in the United States.
He then moved to New Japan Pro Wrestling in Japan in 2002 and then to Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre in Mexico in 2004 before joining WWE in 2006. Khali quickly rose to fame in WWE, becoming one of the most popular wrestlers in the company.
He won the World Heavyweight Championship in 2007, becoming the first Indian-born wrestler to ever win the title. He held the title for two months before dropping it to The Undertaker.
Khali also won the United States Championship and the World Tag Team Championship while in WWE. Khali retired from professional wrestling in 2014 and has since become a wrestling promoter, working with his own company, Continental Wrestling Entertainment.
He is also the founder of the Khali Education Development Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children in India. The Great Khali’s legacy in professional wrestling is one that will never be forgotten.
He is a pioneer for Indian-born wrestlers, and his achievements in WWE will be remembered for years to come.
11. Anshu Malik
Anshu Malik is an Indian freestyle wrestler who achieved a huge milestone at the 2021 World Wrestling Championships held in Oslo, Norway.
She won the silver medal in the women’s 57 kg event, making her the first Indian wrestler to win a silver medal at the World Championships in the women’s division.
This win is an impressive feat, as the World Championships are a highly competitive event that sees some of the best wrestlers from across the globe.
Anshu Malik showed her strength and skill on the mat and was able to come out on top, an achievement that will undoubtedly inspire other Indian wrestlers. Her success is a testament to her hard work and dedication and will be celebrated by the Indian wrestling community.
This silver medal is an important milestone for Indian wrestling and will help to raise the profile of the sport.
12. The Great Gama
Ghulam Mohammad Baksh was a legendary figure in British India. He had several names, such as Rustam-e-Hind and The Great Gama, and was a renowned pehlwani wrestler and strongman.
His fame was such that he was considered the undefeated champion wrestler of the early twentieth century in British India. He was an extremely skilled athlete and was renowned for his physical strength and prowess.
His achievements in the wrestling ring are still remembered today, and his legacy has been passed down through the ages. Gama’s style of wrestling, which was known as pehlwani, was a mix of various styles from around the world.
It combined the strength and agility of traditional Indian wrestling with the power and technique of other forms of wrestling, such as Greco-Roman and freestyle. Gama’s success in the ring was unmatched and he was considered an invincible champion.
He became a legendary figure in the sport and his name has been immortalized in history.
13. Alka Tomar
Alka Tomar is a renowned Indian wrestler who hails from the village of Sisauli. She has achieved many notable successes in her career, including becoming the National Women Wrestling champion of India and receiving the bronze medal in Wrestling at the 2006 Doha Asian Games.
Furthermore, in 2006, she also won a bronze medal at the Senior Wrestling Championships in Guangzhou, China. This achievement has made her a source of inspiration and pride for her entire village. Tomar’s success has been the result of her hard work and dedication to her sport.
She has been training and competing in wrestling since she was a young girl, and her commitment to the sport has paid off. She has earned numerous accolades and medals throughout her wrestling career, and her success has inspired many other women to take up the sport.
Tomar’s achievements have made her an iconic figure in India and abroad. Her story is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success. It is a reminder that with enough effort, anyone can reach their goals.
Alka Tomar’s accomplishments have also demonstrated the potential of Indian athletes in the world of sports.
14. Mahabali Shera
Amanpreet Singh Randhawa, better known by his stage name Mahabali Shera or simply Shera, is an Indian professional wrestler currently signed to Impact Wrestling and Ohio Valley Wrestling.
He made his professional wrestling debut in 2009 and has since competed in various promotions across India.
He is best known for his time in Impact Wrestling, where he has held the X Division Championship and the Impact World Tag Team Championship. In 2018, Shera had a brief stint with WWE, where he made a few appearances on NXT.
Despite not signing a full-time contract with the company, he did make a notable impact in the short time he was there, building anticipation for a potential return. Shera is a highly successful wrestler, with an impressive fan following in India and elsewhere.
He has been praised for his in-ring abilities, having been able to captivate audiences with his skillful stunts and electrifying matches.
He has become an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers, particularly in India, and has shown that it is possible to make it big in the industry regardless of one’s background.
15. Saurav Gurjar
Saurav Gurjar is an Indian professional wrestler and actor who has made a name for himself in the world of entertainment. He is currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand under the ring name Sanga, as a member of the wrestling stable Indus Sher.
His partners in the group are Veer Mahaan and Jinder Mahal, two experienced wrestlers in their own right. Saurav Gurjar has made a name for himself not only as a professional wrestler but also as an actor. He is best known for his role as Bhima in the iconic TV show Mahabharat.
His portrayal of the legendary character has won him many accolades and has made him one of the most recognizable faces in India. Apart from wrestling, Saurav Gurjar has also shown an interest in acting and is currently working on a few projects.
He is set to make his big-screen debut with the movie ‘KGF: Chapter 2’. He will be seen sharing the screen with popular actors like Sanjay Dutt and Yash. Saurav Gurjar is a versatile and talented individual who is making waves in both the wrestling and acting world.
His achievements have earned him the respect of millions of fans and followers. He is an inspiration to many and is sure to make a mark in the entertainment industry.
16. Rinku Singh
Rinku Singh Rajput is an impressive athlete who has achieved success in two very different sports: professional wrestling and baseball. He is currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand under the ring name Veer Mahaan, or simply Veer.
He is part of the trio Indus Sher, alongside Sanga and Jinder Mahal. Rinku Singh Rajput began his professional career as a baseball player, playing in the United States for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
He was the first Indian player to be drafted by a Major League team and was part of the winning team in the 2008 World Baseball Classic.
After a successful stint in baseball, he decided to switch to professional wrestling and made his debut in WWE in 2017. Since then, he has been a part of the Indus Sher stable, alongside Sanga and Jinder Mahal.
Together, the trio has been dominating the Raw brand, and have become one of the most popular acts in the company. With his impressive athleticism and natural charisma, Veer Mahaan has become a fan favorite and is sure to achieve even greater heights in the near future.
17. Jinder Mahal
Yuvraj Singh Dhesi is an Indian professional wrestler who is currently signed to WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). He performs on the Raw brand, which is one of WWE’s main brands, under the ring name Jinder Mahal.
As Jinder Mahal, he is the leader of the Indus Sher stable, a group of Indian wrestlers who work together to gain success. Mahal has been working with WWE since 2011, and in 2017, he won the WWE Championship, which is the highest title a wrestler can achieve in WWE.
He has also held the United States Championship and the WWE 24/7 Championship. Mahal is known for his high-energy in-ring style and has been praised for his ability to connect with the crowd.
He is a great representative for the Indian culture within WWE and has helped to promote the sport in India.
18. Jatindra Charan Guho
Jatindra Charan Guha, better known by his wrestling ring name Gobar Guha, was a prominent Indian professional wrestler. He was trained in the ancient Indian sport of pehlwani wrestling and made a name for himself by wrestling internationally.
During his career, he defeated several notable champion wrestlers, including Wladek Zbyszko, Renato Gardini, Ad Santel, and Joe Stecher. Gobar Guha was born in India and grew up learning the art of pehlwani wrestling.
Pehlwani is a traditional Indian style of wrestling that has been practiced for centuries. As a young adult, Gobar was determined to make a name for himself in the wrestling world and so he set out to compete internationally.
Gobar had a successful career that saw him defeat many of the top wrestlers in the world.
In particular, he was able to defeat Wladek Zbyszko, a former World Heavyweight Champion, Renato Gardini, an Italian wrestler, Ad Santel, an American champion, and Joe Stecher, an American World Heavyweight Champion.
Each of these victories was a testament to Gobar’s skill and determination. Gobar Guha was a highly respected professional wrestler who made a name for himself by competing and defeating some of the top wrestlers in the world.
He was a true pioneer in the world of professional wrestling and an inspiration to other wrestlers. His legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.
19. Kavita Devi
Kavita Dalal is an Indian professional wrestler who has made history in the world of sports entertainment. She is the first female professional wrestler of Indian nationality to ever compete in the WWE.
Dalal, who performs under the ring name Kavita Devi, was signed to the WWE’s developmental territory NXT between 2017 and 2021. During her time in NXT, she competed in matches against some of the biggest names in the women’s division.
Her achievements made her an inspiration to aspiring female wrestlers in India and around the world. Dalal is a trailblazer and an icon for Indian wrestling, and her legacy will be remembered for years to come.
20. Bishambar Singh
Bishambar Singh is a renowned Indian bantamweight wrestler who has achieved great success in his career. He had a remarkable year in 1966, winning two medals in two different competitions.
He earned a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal in the same discipline at the Asian Games. The following year, Singh made history by becoming the first Indian wrestler to win a silver medal at the World Championships.
His accomplishment was a milestone for Indian wrestling and showcased the country’s potential in this sport. Singh’s success has since inspired countless other wrestlers to strive for greatness and follow in his footsteps.
To this day, Singh is remembered and respected for his incredible performance in the wrestling ring and for the impact he has had on the world of wrestling. He will continue to be an inspiration to many for many years to come.
21. Dilsher Shanky
Gurvinder Singh Malhotra is an Indian professional wrestler, who is better known by his ring name Dilsher Shanky. He is currently signed to the WWE, where he is a Free Agent operating under the name Shanky.
He has also earned a reputation for his work in Continental Wrestling Entertainment. Malhotra began his professional wrestling career with Continental Wrestling Entertainment (CWE) in India in 2017.
He quickly became one of the top stars in the promotion, making a name for himself as a high-flying and technical wrestler. In 2019, Malhotra signed with the WWE and was assigned to the NXT UK brand.
He competed in the NXT UK Heritage Cup tournament but was eliminated in the first round.
Malhotra has since become a free agent, working mainly on the independent circuit in both the United States and India. Malhotra is known for his unique style of wrestling, combining elements of Indian martial arts, aerial moves, and technical wrestling.
He is also known for his ability to connect with the crowd, making him a fan favorite.
His popularity has earned him a loyal following, both in the United States and in India. Overall, Gurvinder Singh Malhotra is a top-level professional wrestler who has made a name for himself in both the United States and India.
He is currently signed to the WWE as a free agent and is continuing to make an impact on the wrestling world.
22. Dara Singh
Dara Singh Randhawa was an incredibly multi-talented individual. He was a professional wrestler, actor, director, and politician. His career in entertainment began in 1952 when he began acting in films.
He was a pioneer, becoming the first sportsman to ever be nominated to the Rajya Sabha of India.In addition to his acting career, Dara Singh Randhawa was also a producer, director, and writer, working in both Hindi and Punjabi films and television.
He was able to combine his talents in various industries to bring entertaining and meaningful content to the world. He was an incredibly successful individual who made an immense impact on the world of entertainment.
23. Nisha Dahiya
Nisha Dahiya is an Indian wrestler who made a big splash in the 2021 U23 World Wrestling Championships. Not only did she compete in the women’s freestyle 65 kg event, she won the bronze medal, demonstrating her skill and tenacity.
This success spurred Dahiya onto even bigger accomplishments, as she competed in the 2022 World Wrestling Championships in the women’s freestyle 68 kg event.
Despite her best efforts, she ultimately lost in the bronze medal match, showing that she is not afraid to take risks and push herself to her limits. It is clear that Nisha Dahiya is a talented and determined wrestler who is not afraid to take on tough challenges.
Her success and resilience will surely take her far in her career and she is sure to become an inspiration to many.
24. Divya Kakran
Divya Kakran is an incredibly accomplished freestyle wrestler from India. She is an incredibly decorated athlete, having won 60 medals in her career, including 17 gold medals at the Delhi State Championship.
This is an impressive feat, as she has also been able to win the Bharat Kesari title eight times. This is the highest honor for a wrestler in India, and her accomplishments have been celebrated nationwide.
Divya has worked hard to get to where she is today, and her dedication and perseverance have paid off, as she is now one of the most successful wrestlers in India.
25. Geetika Jakhar
Geetika Jakhar is an Indian wrestler who comes from a family of sportspersons. She is a highly accomplished athlete, having achieved a great deal in her career. The most notable achievement is her receipt of the Arjuna Award in 2006.
This award is given to individuals who have achieved extraordinary success in their respective sport and Geetika is no exception. Geetika is also the only woman wrestler in Indian history to be deemed the Best Wrestler of the 2005 Commonwealth Games.
She has also won medals at the Asian Games in 2006 and 2014 respectively. This is an incredible feat for any athlete, let alone a female one.
She is a true inspiration to achieving success despite the odds. Geetika is a role model for aspiring sportspersons, showing that it is possible to reach the highest levels of success no matter your background. She is an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
It is no wonder that she is so highly respected and admired.
26. Ritu Phogat
Ritu Kumari Phogat is a highly accomplished athlete from India. She is well-known for her achievements in both mixed martial arts and wrestling. In the world of mixed martial arts, she competes in the Atomweight division of ONE Championship.
She has earned a number of accolades in wrestling, including a gold medal at the 2016 Commonwealth Wrestling Championship. Phogat’s success in both sports is remarkable. Her achievements demonstrate a commitment to excellence and a strong passion for her craft.
Her success is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It also serves as an inspiration to young athletes who hope to follow in her footsteps. Phogat’s success has also brought greater attention to the sports of mixed martial arts and wrestling in India.
Her accomplishments have served as a catalyst for increased participation in both sports.
She has become a role model for young athletes who are looking to pursue a career in either sport. Ultimately, Ritu Kumari Phogat stands as an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
Her success has made her a role model for aspiring athletes in India and beyond. She is proof that anything is possible if you put in the effort and never give up.
27. Jeet Rama
Satender Dagar is a professional wrestler from India who has gained recognition for his achievements in WWE, the world’s most popular wrestling promotion. Dagar, who competes under the ring name Jeet Rama, is best known for his tenures in WWE’s developmental territory NXT.
Dagar made his debut in WWE in 2017, signing a developmental contract with the promotion and joining NXT. During his NXT tenure, he was used mainly as an enhancement talent, facing off against top NXT Superstars such as Adam Cole, Kyle O’Reilly, and KUSHIDA.
He also formed an alliance with Babatunde Aiyegbusi and Rinku Singh, known as The Bollywood Boyz, and competed in a number of tag team matches. Dagar has since moved up to the main roster, competing in WWE’s 205 Live brand.
There, he has faced off against top competitors such as Humberto Carrillo, Lince Dorado, and Ariya Daivari.
He has also competed in a number of matches on WWE’s flagship program, Monday Night Raw. Satender Dagar is an accomplished wrestler whose career has been on the rise ever since joining WWE.
His impressive performances in NXT and 205 Live have earned him a loyal fanbase, and he is sure to continue his success in the years to come.
28. Sonam Malik
Sonam Malik is an inspirational Indian woman wrestler from Sonipat, Haryana. She has achieved great success in the sport of wrestling throughout her career. At the National Games, she won a prestigious gold medal.
She also went on to win two gold medals at the World Cadet Wrestling Championship. Her dedication and hard work have served as an example to all aspiring wrestlers. Sonam Malik is an example of how determination and perseverance can help one achieve anything.
Despite being from a small town in Haryana, she has gone on to achieve great success in the sport of wrestling on a global level.
Her commitment to her athletic pursuits is what has helped her reach such heights. The gold medals that she has won at the National Games and the World Cadet Wrestling Championship are a testament to her dedication and hard work.
It is an inspiration for all aspiring wrestlers as it shows that even though one may be from a small town, with the right mindset and dedication, they can still reach their goals. Sonam Malik is an inspiration to all of us.
Her achievements are a testament to the fact that anything can be achieved if you work hard and stay focused. Her success should be an example to all aspiring wrestlers, that they too can achieve their dreams and make their mark in the sport of wrestling.
29. Prem Nath
Prem Nath was a renowned Indian freestyle wrestler who achieved a great deal of success in the sport. He won a gold medal at the 1974 Commonwealth Wrestling Championship in Christchurch, New Zealand, which was a huge accomplishment.
He was also a President’s Medal-winning retired Delhi Police official. During his tenure at the Delhi Police, he was known for striving to popularize wrestling in Delhi. He was a great promoter of the sport and worked tirelessly to make it more popular in the city.
His passion for wrestling was evident in his work and he was a great source of inspiration for many aspiring wrestlers. He was an accomplished wrestler himself and his achievements in the sport have been long-lasting.
He will always be remembered as an influential figure in the world of wrestling.
30. Keshav Mangave
Keshav Mangave was an Indian wrestler who represented his country at the 1952 Summer Olympics. He was a member of the men’s freestyle featherweight division, which consists of competitors who weigh in at up to 57 kilograms.
As a freestyle wrestler, Mangave had to use a variety of techniques and strategies in order to win his matches.
These techniques included throws, pinning holds, and submission holds. Mangave’s participation in the 1952 Summer Olympics was an important moment in Indian sporting history.
The event marked the first time that India had sent a wrestler to the Olympics, and Mangave’s performance was a demonstration of the country’s dedication to the sport.
Despite being a relative newcomer to Olympic competition, Mangave put in a strong showing, displaying the skill and determination that had earned him a place on the team.
Unfortunately, he did not advance past the preliminary rounds, but his efforts were still an impressive representation of Indian wrestling.
31. Sunil Dutt
Sunil Dutt is an Indian wrestler who made history by competing in the 1984 Summer Olympics in the men’s freestyle 48 kg category. He was the first Indian wrestler to compete in the Olympics.
Dutt had an impressive background in wrestling, having won gold medals at the Asian Games in 1982 and 1983 in the same category he competed in at the Olympics.
His success in the Olympics was bittersweet, however, as he was unable to advance beyond the preliminary rounds due to an injury. Despite this, Sunil Dutt still had a great career in wrestling, winning numerous medals in the sport.
He has become an inspiration for many aspiring wrestlers in India, and his achievements are celebrated throughout the country.
32. Sajjan Singh
Sajjan Singh was an Indian wrestler who competed in the men’s freestyle light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics.
This was a major accomplishment for Singh and for Indian wrestling, as the Olympics provide a platform to showcase athletes and their abilities from around the world.
Singh was a part of Indian history, representing his country in the highly prestigious Olympic games. At the time of the 1960 Summer Olympics, Singh was competing in the light heavyweight freestyle division, which is the heaviest weight class in freestyle wrestling.
He competed against some of the best wrestlers in the world, giving it his all in the hopes of bringing home a medal for India.
Unfortunately, Singh did not place in the competition, but he has been praised for his determination and bravery. Despite his failure to medal, Singh’s participation in the 1960 Summer Olympics has been widely recognized and praised.
His determination and commitment to representing his country have made him an inspiration to many Indian wrestlers. He is a reminder that even if the odds are stacked against you, there is still potential to achieve great things.
33. Rohtas Singh Dahiya
Rohtas Dahiya Singh is an Indian wrestler who achieved success at the 1984 Summer Olympics. He competed in the men’s freestyle 57 kg event, demonstrating his incredible athleticism and skill.
His impressive performance at the Olympics was rewarded in 1998 when he received the prestigious Arjun Award. This award is given by the Indian government in recognition of extraordinary performance in the field of sports.
Singh’s Olympic performance and subsequent Arjun Award are a testament to his talent and dedication as an athlete. He is a shining example of what hard work and determination can achieve.
34. Jagmander Singh
Jagmander Singh is a prominent figure in Indian wrestling. He first made his mark on the international stage when he competed in the 1980 Summer Olympics.
This was a major milestone for the Indian wrestling community, as it was the first time that an Indian wrestler had qualified for the Olympics. At the Summer Olympics, Singh was able to make it to the fourth round before being eliminated.
This was a great achievement for him, and it put him in the public eye. After his success in the 1980 Olympics, Singh went on to compete in the 1984 Summer Olympics.
This was a huge honor for Singh, as it showed that he was one of the top wrestlers in the world. At the 1984 Summer Olympics, Singh was able to make it to the quarterfinals before being eliminated.
This was a great accomplishment for Singh, as he was able to make it to the top 8 in the world. This is an impressive feat, and it shows that Singh was a very talented wrestler. Overall, Jagmander Singh is a highly accomplished wrestler.
He has competed in two Summer Olympics, which is a major accomplishment. His success in the Olympics shows that he was a world-class athlete, and he is an example of the talent that India has to offer in the sport of wrestling.
35. Subhash Verma
Subhash Verma is a notable former Indian wrestler who was born on 15 July 1968 in Malakpur, Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. He was trained at the Hanuman Akhara in Delhi, which is a school of wrestling, and was a renowned student of Guru Hanuman.
During the course of his wrestling career, Verma won the prestigious Bharat Kesari title 15 times.
Now that he has retired, he has opened his own Akhara in order to pass on his knowledge and training to the next generation of wrestlers aspiring to represent India at the international level.
The legacy that Verma has left in Indian wrestling is immense, and his commitment to the sport is a source of inspiration for all aspiring wrestlers.
36. Kartar Singh
Kartar Singh is an Indian wrestler who has achieved a great deal of success in his sport. He has won two gold medals in the Asian Games, in 1978 and 1986, and has also had success at the Olympics.
In 1984, he competed in the Men’s Freestyle 100 kg Wrestling event at the Summer Olympics and placed 7th overall.
This was a remarkable achievement, considering the sheer number of athletes who competed in the event. Kartar Singh has been an outstanding wrestler representing India on the world stage. His two gold medals in the Asian Games demonstrate his skill and tenacity as a wrestler.
His 7th place finish at the Olympics in 1984 is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
His success in the sport of wrestling has helped to bring recognition to India and put the nation on the global map. Kartar Singh is a true inspiration to all aspiring wrestlers and athletes. He has shown that with determination and dedication, one can achieve great things.
He is living proof that hard work and commitment to one’s sport can lead to success. His achievements will remain a source of pride for India and its athletes for years to come.
37. Rajinder Singh
Rajinder Singh Mor is a renowned Indian athlete who has made a name for himself in the sport of wrestling. He had an illustrious career, in which he not only won a gold medal in the 1978 Asian Games but also two gold medals in the Commonwealth Games in 1978 and 1982.
He also had the distinction of competing in the 1980 and 1984 Summer Olympics, showcasing his talent on the biggest stage. Singh was also a distinguished member of the Haryana Police, where he worked as a Deputy Inspector General (DIG).
His dedication to the sport and his country was evident in his commitment to both wrestling and police service. He has been an inspiration to many aspiring athletes and has set a benchmark for excellence in the field of sport.
38. Sudesh Kumar
Sudesh Kumar is a former Indian wrestler who had the privilege of competing in two Summer Olympics. The first being the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City and the second being the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.
He was among the select few athletes from India to have the honour of competing in the Olympics and his performance is commendable. Kumar was born in India and began wrestling at a very young age.
He was trained by renowned wrestling coaches and was determined to make a name for himself in the sport. He worked hard to hone his skills and after years of hard work, he was selected to represent India in the 1968 Summer Olympics.
He went on to compete in the freestyle bantamweight event and was one of the top contenders.
Unfortunately, he could not bring home a medal from his first Olympics, but he was determined to do better in the next one. In 1972, Sudesh Kumar was again selected to represent India in the Munich Summer Olympics.
This time around, he was determined to make his country proud and that he did. He competed in the Freestyle featherweight event and finished in 5th place, just one spot short of a medal.
Despite not winning a medal, Kumar’s performance was highly appreciated and he was awarded a National honour for his hard work and dedication. Sudesh Kumar is a living example of hard work and determination.
He has inspired many aspiring wrestlers and athletes to work hard and never give up. He has set an example of how dedication and perseverance can take you far in life. His story is a reminder that dreams can come true with the right amount of hard work and dedication.
39. Priya Malik
Priya Malik is an Indian wrestler with an impressive record. In 2021, she won the gold medal at the World Cadet Wrestling Championship in the Women’s 73 kg event.
Her success didn’t end there; two years later, in 2023, Priya won a Bronze Medal at the Asian Wrestling Championship in Astana. This impressive feat is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport.
It is also a proud moment for India, as Priya has become an inspiration for the entire nation. Through her achievements, she has shown that hard work and dedication can bring success. Her commitment to excellence is something that all aspiring athletes should strive for.
40. Pooja Gehlot
Pooja Gehlot is an accomplished Indian freestyle wrestler who has achieved great success in international competitions. At the 2022 Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, England, she won the bronze medal in the women’s 50 kg event.
This was a remarkable feat for her, as she was competing against wrestlers from countries all over the world. Even more impressive was her silver medal win at the 2019 U23 World Wrestling Championships in the 53 kg category.
This accomplishment showcased her skill and determination, and it was a great honor for her to represent India at this event. Her hard work and dedication has earned her the respect of her peers and fans around the world, and she is an inspiration to many.
41. Naveen Malik
Naveen Malik is an Indian freestyle wrestler who recently won a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. He competed in the men’s freestyle 74 kg division and faced off against Muhammad Sharif Tahir of Pakistan in the finals.
Despite the challenge posed by his Pakistani counterpart, Malik managed to secure a convincing victory with a score of 9-0. His remarkable performance helped him to stand out from the competition and bring home the gold medal.
It was a major accomplishment for Malik, and a momentous occasion for his country, as this was the first gold medal for India in this particular category. This win is a testament to Malik’s hard work and dedication, as well as the support of his coaches and family.
42. Sarita Mor
Sarita Mor is a professional Indian freestyle wrestler who has been active in the sport for many years. Born in 1988, she hails from the Haryana state of India.
She is considered a pioneering female wrestler in India, having been the first Indian woman to win a gold medal in the sport at the Asian Championships in 2009.
Since then, she has gone on to win many other medals at both the Asian Championships and the Commonwealth Games. Mor has been a part of the Indian national wrestling team since 2005 and has been an impressive presence on the international stage.
She has been able to make a name for herself, not only in India but all over the world, as a skilled wrestler and a fierce competitor.
She is a two-time gold medalist at the Commonwealth Games and was the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Asian Championships in 2009. Aside from her impressive competitive record, Mor is also an inspiration to many young girls in India and around the world.
She has been a vocal advocate for the rights of female athletes and has worked to ensure that female athletes are given equal opportunities and recognition. She has been a source of inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers, aspiring to make their mark in the world of sports.
43. Dinkarrav Shinde
Dinkarrav Shinde was an Indian wrestler who had a successful career in the sport. He competed in the 1920 Summer Olympics, representing India in the freestyle featherweight event. Shinde was one of the few Indian athletes who participated in the Olympics that year.
He was also the first Indian wrestler to compete in the Olympics. Shinde had a strong background in wrestling, having trained in the sport since childhood. He had an impressive record, having won numerous medals and championships in amateur wrestling.
He was highly respected within the Indian wrestling community for his achievements. At the Olympics, Shinde was unable to make it past the preliminary round, but he still managed to make an impact.
He represented India with great pride and courage, demonstrating to the world that Indian athletes could compete with the best.
His performance inspired many other Indian athletes to strive for greatness. Shinde’s legacy lives on in India, where he is remembered as a pioneer of Indian wrestling and a symbol of national pride.
His story has been shared with many generations of Indian athletes, who have been inspired by his courage and determination. Even though he was unable to win a medal at the Olympics, his contribution to Indian sport and culture will never be forgotten.
44. Gourav Baliyan
Gourav Baliyan is an Indian freestyle wrestler who has achieved great success in the sport. He is best known for winning the silver medal at the 2020 Asian Wrestling Championships in the 79 kg category.
This accomplishment made him the first Indian wrestler to win a medal in this event since it began in 2003. Baliyan first began his wrestling career in 2017 and has since gone on to win several national and international accolades.
At the 2019 National Championships, he won the gold medal in the 79 kg weight category. He also won gold at the 2019 Commonwealth Wrestling Championships in the same category. In 2020, Baliyan was selected to compete at the Asian Wrestling Championships.
He emerged victorious in the semifinals of the 79 kg weight category and faced off against the defending champion in the final.
Despite the tough competition, he was able to secure a silver medal, making him the first Indian wrestler to win a medal in this event since it began in 2003. Gourav Baliyan has become a source of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers in India.
He has proven that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve great success. His resilience and determination to win have earned him recognition and respect both inside and outside of the wrestling world.
Conclusion
India has produced some of the best wrestling players in the world, and they have achieved great success in the sport. From the legendary Sushil Kumar to the upcoming stars like Deepak Punia, India has some of the best wrestlers in the world.
These wrestlers have worked hard and have achieved great success in the sport. They have made India proud and have set an example for other aspiring wrestlers in the country.
