‘Kusti is a metaphor for life’: The untold story of Maharashtra wrestler Sikandar Shaikh

Born into a family where wrestling has been a tradition for generations, Shaikh began his journey under the guidance of coaches Chandrakant Kale and Vishwas Hargule. These two, whom he reveres as more than just coaches, have shaped his wrestling technique and worldview.

“Due to financial issues, I was forced to join my father for a porterage job. There were days when we used to have a meal once a day. Until the 10th class, I exercised in the morning, attended school, worked, and sometimes skipped classes to earn for my diet. That sacrifice and hard time which I witnessed observing my family inspired me to do whatever it takes to fulfil my father’s dream to win the Maharashtra Kesari title,” Shaikh explained.

“My success is due to a strong support system. My parents, friends, and coach help me maintain mental stability during stressful times.” Shaikh said. (Photo: Loksatta)

“After the 10th grade, I shifted to Gangavesh Talim in Kolhapur and decided to focus on wrestling. With consistent efforts, I started to win matches under the 86 kg category and steadily began to contest in the open category. Now I compete in the 125 kg category,” said Shaikh.

The Sikander pattern

Known for his aggressive style and lightning-quick moves, Shaikh has developed and honed his signature “ekchak and lapet” move, now famously dubbed the “Sikandar pattern”. His impressive record includes victories over wrestlers from Georgia and Iran, adding international acclaim to his domestic achievements.

What truly sets Shaikh apart is his unwavering dedication to discipline. “I start the day at 3.30 am; my daily routine revolves around two intensive training sessions – 4.30 to 8 am and 3.30 to 7 pm. Each session is followed by consuming khurak (wrestler’s special diet) of 1.5 litres of milk, 2 litres of thandai (almond-based drink) and a regular meal which includes 250 gms of ghee and rest,” Shaikh explained.

Shaikh has developed and honed his signature “ekchak and lapet” move, now famously dubbed the “Sikandar pattern”. (Photo: Loksatta)

“This amount of diet requires proportionate workout. Usually, wrestlers do sets of 50 or 100 sapatya (burpee), but I complete 1,000 sapatya without a break. Consistency is the key. Exercise, diet, and rest must exist in perfect harmony. Even my favourite sweets like gulab jamun are avoided by strict self-control,” Shaikh said.

“I think the recent trend of social media overuse and substance consumption poses significant challenges, but akhadas can offer structure, discipline, and meaningful human connection. I urge youngsters to leave harmful habits and opt for a healthy lifestyle, may it be kusti (wrestling) or any other sport, while consuming a healthy diet,” Shaikh said.

“My success is due to a strong support system. My parents, friends, and coach help me maintain mental stability during stressful times. I think one must have a mentor and should respect and obey their advice. This may offer a healthy model for youngsters struggling with social connections in the digital age,” said Shaikh.

“Life in an Akhada is a different world altogether. Kusti teaches you humility. Kusti is a metaphor for life – one learns to handle both victory and defeat. This wisdom, earned through years of disciplined training, offers valuable insights for a generation often seeking quick success without understanding the value of patience and persistence,” Shaikh said.

“Drawing inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s legacy of nurturing wrestlers, I will continue to be a living bridge between Maharashtra’s rich wrestling heritage and its future,” said Shaikh. Following in the footsteps of legends like Ganpatrao Andhalkar, Maruti Mane, and Harishchandra Birajdar, among others, Shaikh is carving his name among Maharashtra’s wrestling elite.