Traditional wrestling dangal held at Deulgaon Raja during Balaji Maharaj yatra, 70-year custom continues

A traditional wrestling dangal was held at Deulgaon Raja during the Lalitotsav of the annual yatra of the Shri Balaji Maharaj Sansthan. The Vaidu community organised it with the help of villagers. The community continues to keep up the tradition, which has run for about 70 years. Wrestlers from different places took part. According to the organisers, prizes totalling between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 4 lakh were given to the winners.

The wrestling pit was inaugurated in the presence of Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav, MLA Manoj Kayande and former MLA Dr Shashikant Khedekar. Bouts were then held at the hands of the dignitaries. A large crowd had gathered to watch the closely fought contests.

Prataprao Jadhav said outdoor games and daily exercise are essential to keep the body healthy and fit. He said wrestling is one of India's traditional sports and such contests give sportspersons a chance to show their skill.

MLA Manoj Kayande appealed to young people to give exercise first place and to take part in national-level sports in large numbers. He said the wrestling pit creates an atmosphere of enthusiasm in the village. He also said he would try to provide the necessary help to build a gymnasium.

Former MLA Dr Shashikant Khedekar said a wrestling dangal is not merely a sporting event but one that keeps the village united. He said such events inspire children towards sport and help shape their future. He wished that the tradition begun by the Vaidu community would continue.

The last bout of the dangal was held at the hands of Chief Officer Arun Mokal and Sandeep Nagre. It was contested between Vijay Vara of Washim and Vishal Mage of Gangapur, and was fiercely fought. Both wrestlers gave a strong contest in the bout, which lasted a full hour. In the end, the panchas mediated and it was decided that both wrestlers would receive equal prizes. Spectators enjoyed the contest with great enthusiasm.

Another highlight of the dangal was the participation of women wrestlers. Women wrestlers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Paithan and Kannad entered the pit and showed their skill. Their presence drew particular enthusiasm from the crowd.

The dangal that the Vaidu community held with the villagers, upholding the 70-year tradition, promoted traditional sports. The closely fought bouts, the women wrestlers and the crowds added a special colour to the yatra's Lalitotsav.

The police administration also extended special cooperation. Sub-Inspector Nitin Mid, Gavai and his team paid close attention to the pit and helped ensure the event concluded successfully.