How Tug-of-War Transformed Akshay Patil's Life: A Journey from Struggle to Success

The Inspiring Journey of Akshay Patil

Diu: Akshay Patil from Kolhapur has dedicated nearly twenty years to the sport of tug-of-war, transforming it from a traditional pastime into a means of survival and self-respect.

Once a farmer's son who faced challenges in affording school fees, Patil has now become a government employee and serves as the assistant coach for Maharashtra's tug-of-war team at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026, exemplifying how sports can change lives.

Patil's journey began in his school days when he participated in district-level tug-of-war trials. For him, being selected meant more than just pride; it allowed his school to waive his annual tuition fee of Rs 1,200, significantly easing his family's financial strain.

"I have been involved in tug-of-war since fifth grade. The waiver of my tuition fees was a huge relief for my family," shared the 29-year-old Patil.

This pivotal moment set the stage for his future. Patil continued to train and compete, balancing his studies with sports, and steadily progressed through district, state, and national competitions. His hard work culminated in 2021 when he was recruited under the sports quota as a sorting assistant in the Postal Department.

Although his first posting was away from home, a later transfer back to Kolhapur provided stability for both his career and family.

The results were immediate. Patil was able to arrange his sister's marriage the following year and invest in livestock, helping his aging parents start a small dairy business.

"My parents have toiled in the fields their entire lives, and now I want them to enjoy some rest. The job also allowed me to manage my sister's wedding smoothly, and I can now say I am settled and free from financial worries," said Patil, who won a silver medal at the 2012 Junior World Cup in Chennai.

Having come through the government school system, Patil continued his education while competing at the highest levels domestically. He has an impressive collection of medals, including two golds, four silvers, and three bronzes from senior national championships between 2011 and 2022.

"Even after starting my job, I never ceased training. Prior to that, I had already participated in district and state competitions and several national tournaments," he added.

Patil attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his wife, Madhavi Patil, a former weightlifter who transitioned to tug-of-war. Madhavi was part of the national weightlifting camp for the 1996 Centennial Olympics in Atlanta and later became an All-India Inter-University champion for four consecutive years, representing India at the Asian Tug-of-War Championship in 2004.

Now a physical education teacher and coach, Madhavi is committed to nurturing young talent and believes that tug-of-war is on the verge of a revival. The sport was part of the Olympic movement until 1908 and is now seeking re-entry into the Summer Games.

Madhavi praised the Khelo India initiative, noting that the inclusion of tug-of-war in the Khelo India Beach Games for two consecutive editions has attracted youth from across the nation to pursue the sport professionally. She hopes it will be recognized as a medal sport in future events.

"With adequate government support, Indian tug-of-war athletes can excel at international competitions and even secure medals at world championships," she stated.

For Akshay Patil, the rope he once pulled for survival has now become a symbol of dignity, livelihood, and hope for himself and his entire family.