Kusti Training at Jai Hanuman Akhada
A look inside our training grounds where we blend the raw tradition of Lal Mati with the technical precision of mat wrestling.
The roar of the crowd and the feel of the 'lal mati' is what a 'dangal' is all about. Here, our pailwan Sai Kadam from the Hanuman Kusti Sankul is locked in a fierce battle, showcasing the raw power and technique honed in our akhada.
Technique and timing are everything in freestyle wrestling. Watch our wrestler Vijay Narale execute a perfect high-amplitude throw during a practice bout on the mat. This is the explosive power we train for.
We are incredibly proud of our young champion, Tanvi Vibhute. She started her journey with us and has shown immense dedication to win the gold medal in the under-14 category. We welcome and train both boys and girls to become strong, disciplined wrestlers.
Upper body strength is fundamental in Kusti. 'Rassi chadhai', or rope climbing, is a traditional and challenging exercise our pailwans master to build the grip and power needed to dominate on the mat and in the mud.
As a Vastad, nothing brings more pride than seeing my students succeed. Here I am with our young pailwans after their fantastic performance at the Mumbai Divisional School Wrestling Competition, where they brought home four gold medals and one silver.
The Gada (mace) is a symbol of a pailwan's strength and devotion to Hanuman. We train our wrestlers to build not just physical power, but also the mental discipline and character that defines a true warrior of the akhada.
Every training session starts with intense warm-ups to prepare the body and mind. Under the guidance of our NIS certified coach, Vastad Sandip Dalavi, our wrestlers build stamina and agility through running, jumping, and dynamic ground drills.
This is the real wealth of our akhada. Wrestlers of all ages, from young children to senior pailwans, united by the 'lal mati' and a shared commitment to hard work and respect. This is our family.
About Featured
Our training goes beyond the ring. You will practice Gada (mace) swings and rope climbing drills, building the functional, raw strength that supports you inside and outside the akhada.
We operate on the principle that wrestling is a way of life, not just a sport. Our head coach Sandip Dalavi, who is NIS certified, leads every session with a focus on discipline and technique. You will train in both environments: the traditional Lal Mati (red soil) pit for building endurance and grip, and the modern blue mats for freestyle competition drills. Beginners learn the basics of stance and movement, while advanced students focus on high-amplitude throws and scoring strategies. Our batches are inclusive, welcoming children and adults who want to learn the art of Kusti. We incorporate traditional calisthenics like Sapaates (Hindu pushups) and Baithaks (squats) alongside modern weight training. Each student receives personal attention to ensure their progress matches their dedication. Whether you aim for the state level trials or want to improve your overall fitness, we provide the environment and the mentorship to help you grow. We maintain a family atmosphere, where senior wrestlers support the juniors, carrying forward the values of respect and hard work that define our sport.
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