2025-07-04 Fri

Wrestling is one of the oldest sports in India. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as "Mallavidya," and the practitioners of this sport are known as ‘Mallas.’ Over time, the term "wrestling" has become associated with various other terms, such as "Kushti," "Malla-Yuddha," "Bahu-Yuddha," and "Pahalwani."

In the epics of Indian Literature, such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, as well as in the Puranic traditions, there are numerous legendary wrestling matches, commonly termed "dva?dva-yuddha" or dual combat. Notably, the "Harivansa Purana" documents that both Sri #krishna and Balram were esteemed masters of wrestling. Prominent contests described in these texts include those between Bhima and Jarasandha, Sugriva and #Ravana, Vali and Sugriva, etc.

In #Gujarat, the "Mallapurana," composed in the 13th century, provides comprehensive information about the rules, Dietary Guidelines, Training regimens, and other facets of wrestling. Additionally, the "Manasollasa," an encyclopedia authored by Chalukya King Somesvara III (1124-1138 CE), offers valuable insights into wrestling and its techniques in Sanskrit.

Dr. Kush Dhebar, a research scholar from Deccan college, highlights that ranging from the sunga-Kushana period (1st-2nd century CE) to the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire (17th century CE), multiple terracotta and stone sculptures depicting wrestling have been discovered across various monuments in India. This evidence underscores that wrestling was a respected art form that garnered significant patronage from #monarchs throughout #ancient and #medieval periods.

Terracotta plates originating from the Gandhara region, dating back to the Sunga-Kushana period, illustrate scenes of physical training and wrestling. For instance, plates unearthed at Sahri Bahlol in #Peshawar (#Pakistan) depict the physical education of Siddhartha.

Moreover, the temples and caves of the Chalukyas in Badami, Karnataka, provide further evidence of wrestling, illuminating the warfare and physical culture of the contemporary society. Cave 4 in Badami, features a well-detailed representation of a scene from Krishna Lila. There are two depictions, in the first one, two figures are holding hands and in the second one, they are trying to strike each other.

The Pallava Kings, known for their contributions to temple art and architecture, also depict wrestling in their works. For example, at the Perumal Temple in kanchipuram, TamilNadu, built by Nandivarman, a pillar in front of the Mandapa illustrates the combat between Vali and Sugriva.

Odisha is notable for its exquisitely crafted temples, such as the Simhanatha Temple, where three panels depict two figures confronting each other with raised fists.

Wrestling was introduced into the ancient Olympics in 708 BCE. When the modern Olympic games resumed in Athens in 1896, wrestling became a focus of the Games once more. On 13 August 2004, India Post released a set of four #Stamps and a Se-tenant to commemorate the 28th Summer Olympic Games in Athens, one of which featured wrestling, designated with a face value of Rs 5.