Mallakhamb rises in USA

Chinmay Patankar demonstrates a mallakhamb method called Bajrang Pakad at Boston Children’s Museum in USA recently

Though mallakhamb is traditionally an Indian sport, its popularity is growing abroad, particularly in the United States. And even the global Covid-19 situation has not been able to hamper its growth.

In fact, the Mallakhamb Federation of USA is all set to host the second Mallakhamb World Championship (MWC) in New York in September next year. MWC organising secretary Chinmay Patankar is optimistic of holding the event despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

16 months to prepare

"The [Covid-19] situation here in the USA is very much under control. We have 16 months for this world championship and by then, I am sure things will ease up further and we will be well prepared to host the event. As many as 15 countries have already confirmed their participation for this world championship, but our target is to bring in 50 nations," Patankar told mid-day from New York on Thursday night.

Being hosts, the Americans are also working hard to put up a strong team that can compete globally. Patankar, a former national champion and Shiv Chhatrapati awardee in 2003, revealed that there are 22 coaches currently guiding more than 300 mallakhamb players in age groups ranging from four to 40 across New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Pennsylvania and Oregon.

"We have introduced mallakhamb in our American sports system and are hoping that given the sports flavour, the game will be well received not just in the USA but also worldwide. Interestingly, the state of New Jersey passed a special resolution in 2019 to make mallakhamb a state-level sport," added Patankar, 42.

Positive response in NY

"In New York, we have an advantage because there are representatives and diplomats from over 160 countries here. We plan to invite them all to witness this championship. We have already communicated with consulate offices of 50 countries and have received a very positive response from each one of them. Even the local government has been very supportive," said Patankar.

Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation Secretary Uday Deshpande, who successfully organised the first MWC in Mumbai in 2019, is eagerly looking forward to this championship: "It will be a challenge for all the players to prepare and give their best at this championship because most of them are out of dedicated practice due to the Coronavirus-caused lockdown. But, I am confident that they will work hard to prepare themselves for this challenge."

Also Read: Players need to be more athletic: Indian women's team fielding coach