Bajrang Punia, a renowned Indian freestyle wrestler, is a prominent figure in Indian sports. His achievements on the international stage have garnered him significant recognition and accolades.
Wiki/Biography
Born on February 26, 1994, in Khudan Village, Jhajjar district, Haryana, India, Bajrang Punia’s journey began with wrestling at the tender age of seven. He honed his skills at the Sports Authority of India (SAI)’s regional center in Sonepat. His dedication and talent were evident from a young age, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 5″
- Weight (approx.): 65 kg
- Body Measurements (approx.): Chest 52″, Waist 30″, Biceps 14″
- Eye Colour: Black
- Hair Colour: Black
Family & Caste
Parents & Siblings
Bajrang is the youngest of three children born to Balvan Singh Punia and Om Pyari Punia. His older brother is Harendra Punia, and he also has a nephew, Naman Punia. The family’s support has been instrumental in his success.
Relationships & Wife
Bajrang Punia married fellow wrestler Sangeeta Phogat on November 25, 2020, in a private ceremony in Balali village, Haryana. He shared the news on Instagram, expressing his excitement about starting this new chapter in his life.
Career
Wrestling
Bajrang’s international career took off with a bronze medal at the 2013 Asian Wrestling Championship. Since then, he’s accumulated numerous medals in various championships, including Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, showcasing his consistent excellence and dominance in the sport.
Politics
After resigning from his Indian Railways position, Bajrang joined the Indian National Congress (INC) along with Vinesh Phogat in September 2024, ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections. He was later appointed the All India Kisan Congress’s working chairman.
Controversies
Questioned Khel Ratna policy
Bajrang publicly criticized the Khel Ratna Award policy, stating he might challenge it in court. He highlighted discrepancies in award criteria.
Protest against Brij Bhushan Singh
Bajrang, along with Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, participated in protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over allegations of sexual harassment. The protests garnered significant media attention and public support.
NADA Suspension
Bajrang faced a suspension by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) in April 2024 for refusing to provide a urine sample. The suspension was later lifted, only to be reinstated in June 2024.
Awards, Honours & Achievements
His achievements include:
| Award/Championship | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Arjuna Award | 2015 | Awarded |
| Padma Shri | 2019 | Awarded |
| World Championship (65 kg) | 2018 | Silver |
| World Championship (60 kg) | 2013 | Bronze |
| Asian Games (65 kg) | 2018 | Gold |
| Asian Games (61 kg) | 2014 | Silver |
| Commonwealth Games (65 kg) | 2018, 2022 | Gold |
| Commonwealth Games (61 kg) | 2014 | Silver |
| Tokyo Olympics (65 kg) | 2020 | Bronze |
Favourites
- Sports: Basketball, Football, River Rafting
- Food: Churma
- Wrestler: Yogeshwar Dutt, Captain Chandrup
Facts
Bajrang’s name is inspired by Lord Hanuman. He enjoys dancing and playing basketball and football. His family relocated to Sonepat in 2015 to support his training at SAI. His wrestling background is familial, with his father and brother being wrestlers themselves.
He dedicated a gold medal win to Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman. In December 2023, he attempted to return his Padma Shri award, citing concerns about the Wrestling Federation of India’s leadership. In March 2024, he was eliminated from the Paris Olympic trials.
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