From heartbreak to Olympic dreams: Akhada tells the story of Mahavir Singh Phogat

Akhada: The Authorized Biography of Mahavir Singh Phogat by Saurabh Duggal is an inspiring true story that transcends the boundaries of sport. It chronicles the journey of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a legendary Indian wrestler, who defied social norms and personal challenges to train his daughters and nieces into wrestling champions.

The book opens with a scene of profound disappointment. Witnessing the unclaimed prize money for Olympic wrestling champions in 2000, Phogat becomes determined to change the narrative. His audacious plan? To train his young daughters and nieces – a move that would challenge societal expectations in his village of Balali, Haryana.

Haryana, a state notorious for female foeticide and low literacy rates, presented a formidable backdrop for Phogat's dream. Akhada delves into the struggles he faced:

Deep-rooted social stigma: Training girls in a traditionally male-dominated sport like wrestling was met with disapproval from his community.

Apathy from the government: Securing resources and recognition for his athletes proved to be an uphill battle.

Internal conflicts: Navigating disapproval from his own family and the weight of personal tragedy added another layer of complexity.

Despite these obstacles, Phogat's unwavering determination and his daughters' grit paid off. Through sheer hard work and unwavering dedication, they rose to national and international acclaim, winning medals at prestigious events like the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games.

Akhada is more than just a sports biography. It's a testament to the power of:

Defying expectations: Phogat's unconventional approach to training girls in wrestling challenged deeply ingrained social norms.

Family bonds: The story highlights the unwavering support and sacrifices made by Phogat's family, particularly his daughters and nieces.

Perseverance: Overcoming societal resistance, lack of resources, and personal difficulties, Phogat's story is an inspiration for anyone chasing a dream.

Akhada: The Authorized Biography of Mahavir Singh Phogat by Saurabh Duggal [Paperback]