Georgian Wrestling Coach Vladimir Mestvirishvili Awarded Posthumous Padma Shri for His Pivotal Role in Indian Wrestling
In a fitting tribute to his immense contributions, the late Georgian wrestling coach Vladimir Mestvirishvili has been posthumously honored with the Padma Shri award, as announced on Sunday. Mestvirishvili, who dedicated nearly two decades of his life to nurturing Indian wrestling talent, is celebrated for shaping the careers of Olympic medalists Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, and Bajrang Punia, among others.
A Father Figure to Indian Wrestling
Bajrang Punia, the bronze medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, eloquently described Mestvirishvili as a father figure to Indian wrestling. He emphasized that the coach's name should always be mentioned alongside those of the wrestlers he mentored. "Whenever Sushil, Yogeshwar and my names are said, his name should also be taken. He has a major role in the medals won by India at the Olympics," Bajrang told The Indian Express, highlighting the coach's integral role in India's Olympic successes.
Technical Mastery and Personal Dedication
Yogeshwar Dutt, who trained under Mestvirishvili for nearly 15 years, credited the coach with revolutionizing the technical aspects of Indian wrestling. "After he came to India, technical issues were sorted. We had a clear idea about what needs to be done and why it has to be done," Yogeshwar recalled. He expressed regret that Mestvirishvili did not receive the Dronacharya award during his lifetime but thanked the government for recognizing his contributions with the Padma Shri.
Mestvirishvili's approach was characterized by a wrestler-first policy, as Bajrang fondly remembered. "He even used to repair the wrestling mat if that was needed. That is how much he cared for wrestlers. He treated all the wrestlers as if they were family," Bajrang added, noting that the coach's care extended beyond training sessions, a rarity in the sport.
Legacy of Mentorship and Modern Techniques
Arriving in India in 2003 as the national team coach, Mestvirishvili spent almost two decades transforming young wrestlers into Olympic champions. His technical knowledge was modern and up-to-date, earning him respect from wrestlers across Europe. Bajrang shared anecdotes of their close bond, such as sharing meals and Mestvirishvili's attention to small details like ensuring wrestlers wore socks in winter to avoid illness.
Yogeshwar also reminisced about the coach's kindness and fairness. "If after training our jersey was wet he would give us his dry jersey to prevent us from catching a chill. In winters, he would give us his track suits. From our diet to training schedules, he took care of everything," he said, emphasizing that Mestvirishvili treated all wrestlers equally, demanding only dedication in return.
Posthumous Recognition and Lasting Impact
Mestvirishvili, affectionately known as Laado among wrestlers, continued to train athletes at Chhatrasal Stadium even after his contract with the Wrestling Federation of India ended in 2017, coaching future stars like Ravi Dahiya. His posthumous Padma Shri award places him alongside other foreign coaches honored in India, such as Cuban-born boxing coach BI Fernandez, who received the Dronacharya award in 2012.
This recognition underscores the profound impact Mestvirishvili had on Indian wrestling, not just through medals but through his unwavering commitment and personal touch. His legacy lives on in the techniques and values he instilled in a generation of wrestlers, cementing his status as a true icon in the sport.
