In the heart of Haryana’s wrestling heartland, Bajrang Punia emerged as a colossus of Indian freestyle wrestling. Born on February 26, 1994, in Khudan village, Jhajjar district, Punia’s journey began at the tender age of seven under his father’s guidance. This early start propelled him to the prestigious Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi by 2008, where he honed his skills in the 65kg category.
Punia’s international breakthrough came in 2013, marking the start of a glittering career. He stands alone as the only Indian wrestler to clinch four medals at the World Wrestling Championships, a feat that underscores his dominance. His medal cabinet boasts a bronze from the Tokyo Olympics 2020, silvers and bronzes from World Championships, golds from Asian Games and Championships, and multiple Commonwealth Games triumphs including golds in 2018 and 2022.
Awards poured in: Arjuna Award in 2015, Padma Shri and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2019. At 32, Punia was at the peak, but a dark cloud descended. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) suspended him for four years from April 23, 2024, to April 22, 2028, after he refused to provide a sample for a dope test. This ban threatens to sideline one of India’s greatest, raising questions about the future of his legendary career.
Indian wrestling, revitalized by Punia’s exploits, now watches anxiously. Will he appeal? Can he return stronger? The sport mourns the potential loss of its brightest star, even as his legacy endures.