Raja Das Shines at Khelo India Beach Games 2026 with Gold Medal in Pencak Silat
Raja Das: Balancing Dreams and Responsibilities
Raja Das, a 33-year-old athlete, juggles his passion for Pencak Silat with helping his father deliver ice to blood banks in Kolkata. His father, a street vendor for many years, has had Raja by his side since childhood, all while Raja pursues his ambition in martial arts. Recently, he secured a gold medal at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026 held at Ghoghla Beach, triumphing over the defending champion, Prasanna Bendre.
Discovering Pencak Silat
With a degree in commerce, Raja's interest in martial arts led him to Pencak Silat, a comprehensive fighting style that includes striking, grappling, and weapon techniques. "I have always been drawn to martial arts, but karate and taekwondo never appealed to me. I was particularly interested in choreography, especially with weapons, which guided me to this sport. After researching, I learned that Pencak Silat was featured in the 2018 Asian Games," Raja explained, having started his training in 2017.
Overcoming Adversity
Raja's journey took him to Indonesia for advanced training before the 2018 Asian Games, but he faced setbacks. "I was new and lacked international experience, which hindered my qualification. However, that experience highlighted the level I needed to achieve," he reflected. Tragically, in 2018, he lost his younger brother in a train accident, which forced him to take on more responsibilities to support his family. "We do what we must to help our family. I assist my father, but the earnings are low. My family supports my ambitions, which gives me strength," Raja shared. He has also completed a physical therapy course to supplement his income when not training.
Achievements in Pencak Silat
Winning the gold medal at the Khelo India Beach Games 2026 in Diu marks another achievement in Raja's impressive career. He previously earned a silver medal at the Khelo India Beach Games 2025 and at the 22nd National Games in Goa. Raja has established himself as one of India's top artistic Pencak Silat athletes, securing national gold medals in 2023, 2024, and 2025. He has also achieved notable placements internationally, finishing fourth in the Asian Championships in 2018 and 2019, and fifth in both the 2018 World Beach Championships in Thailand and the 2024 World Championships in Abu Dhabi.
Future Aspirations
The gold medal in Diu serves as excellent preparation for Raja as he looks forward to the upcoming Senior National Championships, which will qualify him for the 2027 National Games and the international season. "My goal is to earn medals for India on the international stage, and I am optimistic that with the support from the federation and the government, my dream will soon be realized," he concluded.