In an era where wrestlers like Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt were making all the headlines, super heavyweight wrestler Dharmender Dalal was busy sweating it out at his akhara, fine-tuning his skills.
Though Greco-Roman is not as glamorous as the freestyle version, and where India is yet to prove its mettle, the wrestler from Mandhoti (Haryana) has time and again come to India’s rescue. Naturally, recognition didn’t beckon him on a platter.
But better late than never, and Dalal was duly conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award. “I feel really relieved after receiving the award. The joy one feels after winning the award is second to none,” said Dalal.
Coached by the legendary Captain Chandroop, Dalal was introduced to wrestling at the age of 12. Since then, the Akhara has been his temple and the coach, his deity. The imposing wrestler has been the national champion in his category for the past ten years.
“I first won the national championship in 2004. I give credit to my coach and my brother for whatever I have achieved so far,” said Dalal.
Just before bursting onto the national scene, Dalal suffered a career-threatening injury, which sidelined him for two years.
Even the doctors had advised him to forsake the game. But Dalal, with his sheer grit and determination, bounced back.
“In 2002, I suffered a back injury. The doctors asked me to quit the sport. But I worked hard on fitness and returned to wrestling,” added Dalal.
Despite his long list of achievements, Dalal is still hungry for more and is eyeing the Commonwealth Games. The grappler also wants to see India as a powerhouse in Greco-Roman style of wrestling.
“We need to start from the base if we want to win more medal in Greco-Roman style. The best way is to hold more local tournaments and introduce it in schools,” added Dalal.
