International Wrestling Tournament Mahadangal Honors Late Viveka Pahelwan in Bihar
The village of Nadwan in Mokama, Bihar, witnessed a grand spectacle as the international wrestling tournament "Mahadangal" was organized on the first death anniversary of the legendary wrestler Vivek Singh, popularly known as Viveka Pahelwan. The event, held in the native village of JD(U) MLA Anant Singh, drew participants from across the globe and India, creating a vibrant atmosphere of sportsmanship and tribute.
Global and National Participation in the Arena
Wrestlers from Iran and Georgia showcased their skills alongside competitors from various Indian states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Among the international contenders were Hamed, Irfan, and Jalal from Iran, and Teddu from Georgia. The bouts were intense, with Maharashtra's Shiva defeating Iran's Jalal, and a wrestler from Georgia overcoming Delhi's Rohit. In total, prize money worth Rs 51 lakh was distributed among 101 wrestlers, highlighting the scale and significance of the tournament.
A Tribute to Viveka Pahelwan's Legacy
The Mahadangal was organized to honor the legacy and contributions of Viveka Pahelwan, a prominent figure in Indian wrestling renowned as Bihar Kesari. Interestingly, MLA Anant Singh, who once had a rivalry with Viveka, spearheaded the event as a heartfelt tribute to the late wrestler's memory. Singh, along with his younger son Abhinav Singh, was present at the venue, with Singh notably wearing a safa (turban) on his head.
Traditional Wrestling and Cultural Elements
The tournament featured traditional wrestling on a specially prepared arena made of red soil mixed with turmeric, neem, and mustard oil, adhering to classic practices. The event attracted around 10,000 spectators, with a feast arranged for those who traveled from outside. Bhojpuri singer Gunjan Singh added to the cultural fervor by performing at the venue, waving a gamchha (towel) to his songs, while residents like Sanjay Sahu from Mokama expressed their admiration, stating they came to see Singh as much as the wrestling.
Post-Jail Public Appearance and Personal Insights
This event marked MLA Anant Singh's first major public appearance after being released from Beur Jail last week, following bail from the Patna High Court in the Dularchand Yadav murder case. The entire tournament was organized under his supervision, emphasizing his commitment to the wrestling community.
Viveka's brother, Arvind Pahalwan, shared personal insights into the late wrestler's disciplined lifestyle, noting that Viveka consumed about 5 liters of milk daily, along with badam halwa and sharbat, and performed thousands of dand-baithak (push-ups and squats) while running 10 kilometers daily. This rigorous regimen contributed to his imposing physique and success in wrestling. Viveka Pahelwan died on April 2, 2025, after suffering a heart attack, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the sport.
