Kolhapur's Akshay Patil Finds Success Through Tug-of-War
Akshay Patil from Kolhapur has spent almost twenty years overcoming challenges in the tug-of-war arena. His dedication has transformed his life completely. Born into a small farming family, Patil started his sporting journey during school days. He appeared for district tug-of-war trials. Selection meant his school would waive his annual tuition fee of ₹1,200. Patil succeeded, marking a major turning point.
Fee Waiver Sparks a Lifelong Passion
"I have been associated with tug-of-war since fifth standard," said the 29-year-old assistant coach of the Maharashtra team at Khelo India Beach Games 2026 in Diu. "When the school waived my tuition fees, it brought big relief to my family." This early support fueled his passion for the sport.
Perseverance Leads to Government Job
Years of hard work paid off in 2021. His commitment earned him direct recruitment under the sports quota. He became a sorting assistant in the Postal Department. Initially posted away from home, a transfer back to Kolhapur brought stability to his career and family life.
The impact was immediate and profound. Patil arranged his only sister's marriage the following year. He also invested in cattle to help his ageing parents start a small dairy business.
Financial Security and Family Support
"My parents worked tirelessly in the fields all their lives. Now I want them to rest," Patil explained. "The job helped me arrange my sister's marriage smoothly. Today I feel settled, free from financial insecurity." Patil won a silver medal at the 2012 junior World Cup in Chennai.
A product of government schools, Patil continued his education while competing in state and national tournaments. "Even after joining service, I never stopped practicing," he added. "Before that, I played district and state-level competitions and participated in various national events."
Credit to Mentor Madhavi Patil
Patil credits former weightlifter-turned-tug-of-war athlete Madhavi Patil for constant support. Madhavi once trained at the national weightlifting camp for the 1996 Centennial Olympics in Atlanta. She quit weightlifting in 2000 for a tug-of-war career.
Madhavi became the All India Inter-University champion for four consecutive years. She represented India at the 2004 Asian Tug-of-War Championship. Now a physical education teacher and coach, she prepares the next generation of athletes.
Tug-of-War Eyes Olympic Return
Tug-of-war was part of the Olympic movement until 1908. The sport now eyes readmission into the Summer Games. Madhavi praises the Khelo India initiative. She notes the sport's inclusion in Khelo India Beach Games for two consecutive editions.
This inclusion attracts youngsters across India to take up the traditional sport professionally. Madhavi hopes tug-of-war becomes a medal sport in KIBG next season.
"With proper government support, Indian tug-of-war athletes can perform very well internationally," Madhavi added. "They can even win medals at world championships."
Patil boasts an impressive medal record himself. He has two golds, four silvers, and three bronze medals from senior nationals between 2011 and 2022. His story shows how sport can create lasting change for individuals and families.
