Mandi Wrestlers Selected for Asian Kurash Championship 2025

Shaurya Veer Yadav and Siddharth Thakur, two talented wrestlers from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, have been selected to represent India at the Asian Kurash Championship 2025 in South Korea. Their selection follows outstanding performances at the national trials, where they showcased their skills against tough competitors. With a strong sporting background and impressive achievements at various national events, both athletes are now aiming for success on the international stage. The state Kurash association expresses optimism for their future, highlighting the potential for medals and qualification for the Youth Olympics.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2025, 20:19 IST

Young Talents Shine in National Trials

MANDI: Two promising wrestlers from Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, Shaurya Veer Yadav and Siddharth Thakur, have earned their places in the Indian junior team for the upcoming Asian Kurash Championship-2025, set to take place in Changju, South Korea, this July.

Their selection follows outstanding performances during the Indian team trials held in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, from May 15 to 17. Competing in the junior boys’ categories, Shaurya Veer clinched first place in the 90 kg division, while Siddharth secured second in the 81 kg category, overcoming tough competitors from Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.

A Proud Achievement for Himachal Pradesh

Virender Singh Dhaulta, the general secretary of the Himachal Pradesh Amateur Kurash Association, expressed pride in the athletes' achievements. He stated, “These young sportsmen have demonstrated remarkable determination, bringing recognition to Himachal on an international platform.”

Background of the Young Athletes

Fifteen-year-old Shaurya Veer Yadav is the son of Dr. Sanjay Kumar Yadav, an accomplished international athlete and recipient of the Parshuram Award and the State Teacher Award 2025. Dr. Yadav has been a significant influence in both sports and education, and his son is now following in his footsteps toward international acclaim.

Siddharth Thakur also comes from a family with a strong sporting background. His father, Roop Singh Thakur, is a physical education teacher and coordinates wrestling events in Dhawal, Sundernagar.

National Achievements of the Wrestlers

Both athletes have already made significant strides at the national level. Shaurya was named the best player at the State School Indoor Games, earned a silver medal at the National Junior Kurash Championship, and secured a bronze in wrestling at the National School Games-2025 held at Chhatrasal Stadium, New Delhi. He also represented Himachal in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Patna from May 11 to 14.

This year, Shaurya gained attention by winning two notable titles: ‘Mandi Kumar’ at the Mandi International Shivratri Festival and ‘Suket Himachal Kumar’ at the Nalwar Mela in Sundernagar, both awarded by the Himachal Pradesh Government.

Looking Ahead: Youth Olympics Aspirations

Officials from the state Kurash association are optimistic about the athletes' prospects in the forthcoming championship. Kaushal Mangta, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Kurash Association, along with Dr. Surender Kulla (President) and Hardev Negi (Treasurer), congratulated the wrestlers.

They praised Virender Singh Dhaulta for his mentorship of young talent, stating, “With proper training and dedication, these athletes have the potential to win medals and qualify for the Youth Olympics.”