Our Akhada: The Heart of Kusti Culture and Community
Joining us means becoming part of the Jai Hanuman Akhada family, where traditional values meet modern discipline.
Wrestling connects cultures. Our coach Sandip Dalvi with a Japanese sumo wrestler at the Gateway of India during a Maharashtra and Japan wrestling meet, fostering international sportsmanship.
Our coaching team with the Japanese sumo wrestling delegation. We believe in learning from and sharing our knowledge with martial artists from around the world.
A friendly moment between our coach and members of the Japanese sumo team. These interactions build bridges and show the universal respect shared among combat athletes.
Our akhada welcomes visitors from all over the world. Here, a guest from abroad experiences the traditional 'lal mati' pit firsthand at the Lakshmi Narayan Kusti Akhada in Mumbai.
The walls of our akhada tell a story. This vibrant wall art depicts the dynamic action of Kusti, creating an inspiring environment for all who train here.
The 'lal mati' pit, freshly prepared and decorated for our akhada's inauguration ceremony. The soil is mixed with ingredients like turmeric and ghee, and is revered by all wrestlers.
The sacred 'gada' (mace) of Lord Hanuman, outlined with flowers in the 'lal mati' during our opening ceremony puja. We begin all things with a prayer for strength and guidance.
The entrance to our home: the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Kusti Talim in Sanpada. This is where discipline meets tradition, and wrestlers are made.
The 'lal mati' pit decorated for the inauguration puja. The tools used to maintain the pit are also blessed, honoring every aspect of our tradition.
Dignitaries and guests join our wrestlers to inaugurate the akhada. The support of the community is vital to keeping the tradition of Kusti alive and thriving.
About The Akhada: Our Community & Culture
When you walk into our Sanpada akhada, you aren't just stepping into a training ground, you are entering a community. It is where our wrestlers, from young kids to seasoned Pailwans, learn life lessons through the discipline of Kusti. Whether it is the rhythmic sound of the Gada or the camaraderie in our lal mati pit, you will quickly understand why we call this place our home, not just a training center.
Our akhada is built on the ancient Guru-Shishya tradition, where respect for the Vastaad and your fellow wrestlers comes first. We believe that true strength is forged not just by winning medals, but by the grit you develop during daily practice in the lal mati (red soil).
We have created a space that is inclusive and open, evidenced by our international connections. We were proud to host Japanese sumo wrestlers, an experience that highlighted how wrestling, despite different styles, shares a universal language of discipline and respect. This international exchange is a testament to the fact that Kusti is a global culture that starts right here in Navi Mumbai.
Everything in our space—from the ritualistic setup of the pit to the mural art on our walls—is designed to keep the spirit of the sport alive. If you are looking for more than just a workout, you are looking for a culture that keeps you grounded. Whether you are aiming for state-level competitions or simply want to build lifelong fitness, you will find a place here that challenges you and supports you every step of the way.
Jai Hanuman Kusti Akhada
I am Sandip Dalavi, NIS certified coach and Vastaad here. My team and I don't just teach wrestling; we maintain a home where anyone with the right spirit can learn the discipline of Kusti. Come by, watch a session, and see what the Akhada life is all about.
Looking for wrestling training in Navi Mumbai?
Tell us what you are interested in exploring at our akhada.
More from Wrestling (Kusti) Coaching by Jai Hanuman Kusti Akhada
More services by Jai Hanuman Kusti Akhada