Gama Pehalwan, a name synonymous with unmatched wrestling prowess, continues to inspire awe and admiration decades after his legendary career. His undefeated streak and incredible strength remain etched in the annals of wrestling history, solidifying his place as a true icon of the Indian subcontinent.

Biography/ Wiki

Ghulam Muhammad Baksh, better known as Gama Pehalwan, was born on May 22, 1878, in Jabbowal, Amritsar, Punjab, British India. Born into a family renowned for its wrestling legacy, he was destined for greatness. From a young age, Gama displayed exceptional strength and skill, quickly making a name for himself in the world of wrestling.

Family, Religion, & Children

Gama Pehalwan’s father was Muhammad Aziz Baksh, also a prominent wrestler. He had a brother, Imam Baksh Pehalwan, who also achieved recognition in the wrestling world. Gama married twice, having five sons and four daughters. His granddaughter, Kalsoom Nawaz, is notably the wife of Nawaz Sharif.

Physical Appearance

Gama Pehalwan possessed a remarkably strong physique. He stood at 5’8″ tall and weighed 110 kg. His impressive build included a 46″ chest, 34″ waist, and 22″ biceps.

Diet & Exercise

Gama’s rigorous training regimen and disciplined diet contributed significantly to his phenomenal strength. His daily diet reportedly included 2 gallons of milk, six desi chickens, and over a pound of crushed almond paste. His workout routine was equally intense, involving grappling with 40 fellow wrestlers, 5000 baithaks (squats), and 3000 dands (push-ups) daily. He also famously trained with a 95 kg doughnut-shaped disc, now displayed at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) Museum in Patiala.

The Beginning Of The Wrestling Career

Gama’s wrestling journey began at a young age, shaped by the influence of his family and mentors. Following his father’s death, his maternal grandfather and uncle, both wrestlers, played a crucial role in his early training.

First Recognition & Training

At just 10 years old, Gama participated in a strongman competition in Jodhpur, showcasing his exceptional strength. The Maharaja of Jodhpur was so impressed that he declared Gama the winner despite his young age. Subsequently, the Maharaja of Datia took him under his wing, providing further training and launching Gama’s professional career.

A Rare Achievement

During a wrestling competition in Baroda (Vadodara), Gama Pehalwan demonstrated incredible strength by lifting a stone weighing over 1200 kilograms. This stone is now preserved at the Baroda Museum.

The Turning Point

A pivotal moment in Gama’s career arrived in 1895 when he challenged Raheem Bakhsh Sultani Wala, the then Indian Wrestling Champion. This grueling match, lasting hours and ending in a draw, marked a turning point, propelling Gama to greater heights.

Challenge That Was Considered Bluff

Gama’s journey took him to England, where he issued a challenge to wrestle multiple opponents, which was initially dismissed as a bluff. However, he proved his doubters wrong by quickly defeating several wrestlers, gaining entry into official tournaments.

Gama & The World Champion

In 1910, Gama faced Stanislaus Zbyszko, the reigning world champion, in the finals of the John Bull World Championships. The match, with a significant prize money, ended in a draw. A rematch was planned, but Zbyszko didn’t appear, resulting in Gama’s victory.

International Sweeps

Gama’s dominance extended internationally, with victories over renowned wrestlers like Maurice Deriaz (France), “Doc” Benjamin Roller (USA), Jesse Peterson (Sweden), and Johann Lemm (Switzerland).

Challenge That Went Untaken

Despite his incredible success, Gama’s challenges to other world champions, including George Hackenschmidt, Taro Miyake, and Frank Gotch, went unanswered.

Strongest Opponent

Gama consistently named Raheem Bakhsh Sultani Wala as his toughest opponent.

Laurels From The Prince Of Wales

In 1922, the Prince of Wales presented Gama with a silver mace, acknowledging his exceptional achievements.

The “Tiger”

In a rematch with Zbyszko in 1928, Gama won decisively, prompting Zbyszko to call him a “tiger”.

Beginning Of The End

Gama’s final match was in 1929 against Jesse Petersen, a bout he won swiftly. His later career saw a match against Balram Heeraman Singh Yadav, which ended in a draw.

Retirement & Death

Gama retired in 1952 and later moved to Pakistan. He passed away on May 23, 1960, after a period of illness. His medical expenses were supported by G. D. Birla and the Government of Pakistan.

Biggest Admirer

Bruce Lee, a martial arts icon, was a known admirer of Gama Pehalwan, incorporating elements of his training into his own regimen.

Facts

• Gama Pehalwan was a teetotaler and non-smoker.
• Google celebrated his legacy with a Doodle on May 22, 2022.

Key Stats