Karnal’s 75th annual dangal opens to roaring crowds

The 75th annual Shri Jagdamba Devi Pankha Dangal began on Friday at the Ramlila Ground in Karnal, drawing enthusiastic crowds from both urban and rural areas.

Residents, including many elderly spectators, gathered in large numbers to cheer for the wrestlers competing in the opening bouts of the three-day traditional wrestling festival.

Committee president Ramdhun Kamboj said the dangal has been held in Karnal for the past over 70 years and continues to remain an integral part of India’s traditional sporting and cultural heritage. “Top wrestlers from across the country will showcase their strength during the three-day event,” he said. He added that before Independence, the family of Nawab Liaqat Ali organised the event in Karnal; after 1947, Bhagat Ram Bajaj carried the tradition forward and it is now overseen by the Shri Jagdamba Devi Pankha Dangal Committee.

Senior vice-president and veteran wrestler Ramchandra Palaram said decisions on the bouts would be taken by the event’s technical committee. Daily matches will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm and winners, including those in the prestigious Gurj wrestling category, will receive cash prizes worth several lakh rupees. He also urged the youth to stay away from drugs and return to the akhara, emphasising that wrestling helps build both physical and mental strength.

In the opening matches, Saurabh Manglora defeated Armaan Uchana, Ashu Bapauli beat Honey Manglora, Amit Manglora won against Vinay Bapauli, Sagar Manglora defeated Dev Sonepat, Abhay Bapauli beat Vansh Gagsina, Lakshya Gagsina defeated Jatin Manglora, Vinay Manglora overcame Shivam Sonepat, Anil Manglora defeated Nishant, Hardik Sonepat beat Nitin Gagsina, Krish Panipat defeated Vicky Jhajjar and Vijay Sonepat won against Jatin Sambhli.