Patna: An international wrestling tournament is being held on Friday in Nadwan village, the native place of Mokama MLA Anant Singh, bringing together wrestlers from across India and overseas in a display of traditional sporting prowess.
The event, described as a “Mahadangal”, has been organised to mark the death anniversary of the noted strongman Viveka Pehalwan, who was known for his discipline and rigorous training regime. Singh paid tribute to the late wrestler earlier in the day on social media, outlining the significance of the gathering.
According to organisers, participants include wrestlers from several Indian states such as Maharashtra, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, alongside international contenders reportedly arriving from countries including Georgia and Iran. Among those expected are foreign wrestlers identified as Teddu Pehalwan and others named Hamid, Irfan and Jalal.
The tournament is also expected to draw political attention, with invitations extended to senior leaders including Bihar’s chief minister Nitish Kumar and minister Ashok Choudhary, among others.
Singh, who has recently returned to public life following his release from jail, said large crowds were anticipated, with preparations including a completed akhada (wrestling arena) and arrangements for a community feast for attendees.
Organisers say the event aims to elevate the profile of traditional wrestling by hosting it on an international scale, while also commemorating Viveka Pehalwan’s legacy. The wrestler, a recipient of the “Bihar Kesari” title, was known for performing thousands of daily dand-baithaks and running long distances as part of his training.
