Jaipur's Ozashv Gajraj Shines at Khelo India National Kalari Payattu League

Ozashv Gajraj Brings Glory to Rajasthan

Jaipur. Representing Rajasthan in the traditionally South Indian sport of Kalari Payattu, Ozashv Gajraj from Jaipur has once again raised the state's flag high by securing a silver medal at the Khelo India National Kalari Payattu League. He is the only athlete from Rajasthan to achieve this historic feat. Previously, he also earned a silver medal at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 held in Gaya, Bihar, enhancing the pride of Rajasthan.

The Khelo India 2026 Martial Arts Kalari Payattu event, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India, took place in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Over 450 athletes from 24 states participated in the competition held from March 27 to 29, 2026. In the Chuvadugal category, known as the 'Mother of Martial Arts,' Ozashv Gajraj won a silver medal, bringing honor to his state. At just 14 years old, he achieved this milestone in the junior boys' category.

Ozashv credited his remarkable victory to his mentor Ashok Parikh from Ashok Sports Academy, along with his parents, Dr. Suman Maurya (Professor at Rajasthan University) and Dr. Jagdish Prasad (Deputy Director of Women's Empowerment). He has previously won over 40 medals in various national and international karate and Kalari Payattu competitions, further elevating the pride of his country and state. Ozashv is a tenth-grade student at Warren Academy School and holds a black belt in karate.