Amritsar's young pahalwans keep kushti alive in traditional mud akhadas

8 hours ago 5

ARTICLE AD BOX

In the heart of Amritsar, a new generation of wrestlers—known as pahalwans—is keeping the centuries-old tradition of kushti alive. At rustic outdoor arenas called akhadas, these young athletes begin their day before sunrise, training rigorously in mud pits enriched with honey and water to improve texture and grip. Guided by veteran coaches, they follow strict diets, disciplined routines, and time-honoured techniques that celebrate India's rich wrestling heritage.

1/7

Practicing hard! A wrestler practices grappling techniques with a fellow athlete as they sharpen their skills at a traditional outdoor 'Akhada' in Amritsar. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI

2/7

Indian 'desi wrestlers' also known as 'Pahalwans' hone their skills at traditional outdoor 'Akhada' in Amritsar. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI

3/7

A wrestler was spotted doing push-ups as part of his warm-up routine before engaging in a traditional wrestling match at an 'Akhada' in Amritsar. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI

4/7

Dedicated to their craft! Wrestlers engage in grappling drills with fellow athletes as they refine their techniques at a traditional open-air 'Akhada' in Amritsar. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI

5/7

Wrestlers in Amritsar are seen practicing 'kushti', a traditional Indian style of wrestling, at a local outdoor gym called an 'akhada'. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI

6/7

Indian wrestlers work on their rope climbing skills while younger wrestlers look on at a traditional outdoor gym called an 'akhada' in Amritsar. (PTI)

Photo Credit : PTI