How a vegetarian wrestler from a Delhi village became a national sporting icon
In short: Sushil Kumar rose from humble beginnings in Baprola to become the first athlete from independent India to secure two individual Olympic medals. His path from a local wrestling school to international podiums was defined by intense discipline, a strictly vegetarian diet, and a series of historic athletic achievements.
Born in 1983, Sushil Kumar began his journey in pehlwani wrestling at age 14 at the Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi. Supported by his family, who prioritized his nutrition with ghee and fresh vegetables despite limited resources, he transitioned to freestyle wrestling. His early promise was evident in 1998 at the World Cadet Games, where he claimed gold. By 2008, he had secured a bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics, marking India's first wrestling medal since 1952.
Kumar's career reached new heights in 2010 when he became the first Indian wrestler to capture a world title, defeating Russia's Alan Gogaev. He continued his dominance at the Commonwealth Games, winning consecutive gold medals in 2010, 2014, and 2018. His 2012 London Olympics performance earned him a silver medal, cementing his status as the first Indian to win two individual Olympic medals since the nation's independence. Beyond the mat, he earned academic degrees and held positions with the Indian Railways.
The wrestler's life took a dramatic turn in May 2021 following the death of Sagar Dhankhar at Chhatrasal Stadium. Arrested by Delhi Police, Kumar faced prolonged legal proceedings. Although granted bail in March 2025 due to a lack of direct evidence, the Supreme Court of India cancelled this bail in August 2025, citing concerns regarding witness intimidation and trial interference. This legal saga stands in stark contrast to his earlier years as a celebrated athlete and recipient of India's highest sporting honours, including the Khel Ratna.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Sushil Kumar
- Also: Wikidata — Sushil Kumar · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Sushil Kumar · CC0
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