Rahul Gandhi Shows Off Jiu-Jitsu Skills in Surprise Akhara Visit

Rahul Gandhi surprised wrestlers in Haryana with his impressive Jiu-Jitsu skills during a practice session. The Congress leader displayed locks and chokes techniques, pinning down Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia. Gandhi also learned wrestling moves and enjoyed a traditional breakfast with the wrestlers.

Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made a surprise visit to the Virendra Akhara in Haryana's Jhajjar district. During his visit, Gandhi engaged in a martial arts bout with renowned wrestler Bajrang Punia, showcasing his impressive Jiu-Jitsu skills.

Gandhi's Martial Arts Prowess

Gandhi's visit to the akhara began with a practice session with the wrestlers. He surprised everyone present by demonstrating his proficiency in Jiu-Jitsu, a Japanese martial art form and close combat sport. In a video shared by Bajrang Punia on social media, Gandhi can be seen executing locks and chokes techniques, successfully pinning the Olympic bronze medallist to the mat.

Learning Wrestling Moves

In addition to showcasing his Jiu-Jitsu skills, Gandhi also took the opportunity to learn some wrestling moves from Bajrang Punia. The wrestler taught him techniques such as "dhobi pachaad" and "dhak," explaining the differences between wrestling on mud and on a mat. Gandhi's eagerness to learn and his camaraderie with the wrestlers were evident throughout the session.

Breakfast with the Wrestlers

After the practice session, Gandhi shared breakfast with the wrestlers. He enjoyed a traditional meal of milk, "Bajre Ki Roti," and "saag." The wrestlers also offered him some locally-grown vegetables, which he gladly accepted.

Bajrang Punia's Perspective

In the video shared by Bajrang Punia, he expressed his delight at Gandhi's visit to the akhara. He mentioned that everyone was thrilled to have Gandhi witness their training and lifestyle. Bajrang also spoke about Gandhi's Jiu-Jitsu skills and how they shared insights into each other's respective sports.

Context of the Visit

Gandhi's visit to the Virendra Akhara comes shortly after Bajrang Punia returned his prestigious Padma Shri award in protest against the election of Sanjay Singh, a close associate of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, as the president of the WFI. The wrestlers have been demanding that no close associate of Brij Bhushan should hold any position in the WFI administration, alleging sexual exploitation of several women grapplers by the former WFI chief.

Sports Ministry's Response

In response to the controversy surrounding the WFI elections, the Sports Ministry has suspended the newly-elected panel for not adhering to the provisions of its own constitution while making decisions. The ministry has also directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an ad-hoc committee to manage the affairs of the sports body.

Rahul Gandhi's visit to the Virendra Akhara and his interactions with the wrestlers highlighted the ongoing issues within the Wrestling Federation of India. His demonstration of Jiu-Jitsu skills and his willingness to learn from the wrestlers showcased his interest in sports and his support for the athletes. As the controversy surrounding the WFI continues to unfold, Gandhi's visit serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the concerns raised by the wrestlers and ensuring a safe and fair environment for athletes in the sport.