Nitesh Siwach: A Wrestler's Journey to the Asian Games

Nitesh Siwach's journey to the Asian Games is a tale of resilience and determination. From initially pursuing kabaddi to embracing wrestling, he faced significant challenges, including a knee injury that sidelined him for two years. With unwavering support from his family and the Inspire Institute of Sport, Nitesh has made a remarkable comeback, achieving medals at the Asian Championships. As he prepares for his first Asian Games, he carries the weight of expectations but remains focused on his goal of bringing home a gold medal. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of a strong support system.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 9, 2026, 20:35 IST

A Father's Encouragement

During the trials for the Asian Games, Nitesh Siwach's father made the trip to witness his son's competition firsthand. After the event, he shared a memorable piece of advice that Nitesh has held close ever since: 'Now there is no looking back; you must secure a medal at the Asian Games, and then aim for the Olympics and World Championships.' This encouragement has been a guiding principle for Nitesh.

As a 23-year-old preparing for his inaugural Asian Games, this statement encapsulates a journey that extends far beyond the recent trials, rooted in a promise made long before he ever stepped onto the wrestling mat.

Transition from Kabaddi to Wrestling

Nitesh's introduction to wrestling was unconventional. Initially, in 2012, he intended to play kabaddi at Pratap School, a sport he enjoyed. However, upon arrival, he found himself among wrestlers, and it was his father's long-held dream for him to become a wrestler that influenced his decision to switch sports. 'I began wrestling in 2012 because my father always envisioned me as a pehelwan. Although I was there for kabaddi, I ended up embracing wrestling instead,' he explains.

Resilience Through Adversity

Nitesh dedicated two years to training before a knee surgery sidelined him from the sport. This absence lasted nearly two years, during which he assisted his father, a milkman, instead of pursuing wrestling. It could have marked the end of his wrestling aspirations, but during this time, he reflected on his father's work and contemplated what could happen if he returned to the mat. He approached his family with a request: allow him six months to give wrestling another shot. 'I asked my family for six months to try wrestling again,' he recalls. They agreed, and within that timeframe, Nitesh secured a medal at the School Nationals, a pivotal moment that redirected his path.

The Path to the Asian Games

Since that second chance, Nitesh has consistently improved, achieving notable success at the senior level, including a bronze medal at the Asian Championships in 2025 and a silver in 2026. This progression has led him to his first Asian Games. A three-week training camp in Uzbekistan provided him with essential exposure to high-caliber opponents, allowing him to refine his skills, particularly in ground wrestling. 'The camp in Uzbekistan was an excellent opportunity for us, boosting our confidence for the Asian Games. I focused on enhancing my ground wrestling, and I feel stronger in that area now,' he states.

Managing Expectations

Despite his steady progress, Nitesh feels the weight of expectations. He has been preparing for these Asian Games for several years and is aware that no wrestler in his weight class has ever medaled at the event. This reality serves as both motivation and pressure. 'There is pressure because people believe I can win a medal, and there's the added pressure of being the first in my category to succeed at the Games. I remind myself to give my best, but too much pressure can hinder my performance,' he admits.

To manage this pressure, he engages in discussions with his coaches and family, who remind him that performance fluctuates over time. Off the mat, Nitesh reviews recordings of his matches to identify areas for improvement. 'When I struggle, I analyze my videos to pinpoint weaknesses and mistakes. I consult my coaches and family, who reassure me that performance varies, and I must stay focused,' he shares.

Gratitude for Support

Throughout his injury, time away, and the anticipation for the Asian Games, Nitesh expresses deep gratitude for the support from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS). 'I am incredibly thankful to IIS for addressing all my needs, from travel for training and competitions to nutrition and physiotherapy,' he says.

As he prepares to compete in his first Asian Games, Nitesh reflects on the support from his parents and coaches, expressing a simple request: 'Please pray for me; I aim to bring home a gold medal. I will raise my country's flag and sing the national anthem,' he concludes.