In the pursuit of Kushti excellence
The club, Akhara Guru Gaya Seth, has around 150 members. Most of these train twice a day; early morning and late afternoon. A good part of the physical training consists of push-ups and rope climbing, and while dumbbells are used it is mainly their bodies they use as ballast. The actual wrestling is performed within a square approximately 4x4 meters in size.
Physical training.
Strength exercises are very important in Kushti. Traditional exercises involve the use of large stones stone rings and clubs known as “joris.” Body weight exercises are a...
Most countries have a traditional style of wrestling. In India, wrestling takes place in a clay or dirt pit. The soil is mixed with ghee and other things and is tended to...
The sport is on the decline, but there are still many akharas left and some dedicated people who are working to keep this ancient part of Indian culture alive.
Before trainig the wrestlers pay their respect.
Kushti wrestlers have had a history of success competing in the Olympics and and in commercial bouts in the west. Many modern wrestling experts inclduing the renowned Kar...
The training area in kushti is known as an Akhara and training sessions in traditional camps are typically 4-6 hours per day.
Massage after training.
Old Santu with some of the kids.
Tournament outside Varanasi.
Young fighters getting rupees for participating in the tournament.
Tournament outside Varanasi.
Tournament outside Varanasi.
Tournament outside Varanasi.
Tournament outside Varanasi.
Physical training.
Relaxing after training.
Massage after training.
Shower time.
A quiet moment.
Massage.
The beauty of Kushti.