Dayan Faruqui, Chairman of Pro Wrestling League, pulled back the curtain on the 2026 trophy’s inspiring design, telling IANS how it weaves together the league’s ethos with India’s storied wrestling grounds. Soil from every state akhara was sourced and integrated, grounding the prize in pehlwani tradition.
In Noida, Faruqui emphasized the labor of love: ‘Our team scoured the nation for this soil from all six teams’ roots, ensuring the trophy embodies our land’s spirit. The Hanuman gada element adds mythical might—crafted with precision and purpose.’
Marking a triumphant return after six years, the season began January 15, eyeing a February 1 showdown. The preceding auction was a bidding war: Haryana Thunder’s 60-lakh coup for Olympic champ Yui Susaki headlined women’s acquisitions.
UP Dominators landed Antim Panghal (52 lakh, 53kg), Punjab Royals took Ana Godinez (46 lakh, 62kg), and Delhi Dungal Warriors signed Anastasia Alpaeva (27 lakh, 76kg). In men’s, Maharashtra Kesari got Robert Baran for 55 lakh, while Tigers of Mumbai Dungal claimed Aman Sehrawat at 51 lakh—proof of wrestling’s star power.
Faruqui’s tribute to kushti’s fervor was moving: ‘It gives me chills—the soil’s emotion floods the heart with tears and pride. This is India’s sport; PWL successes are triumphs for the motherland.’
Praising Power Minute as a pivotal innovation, he explained its boost to late-match stamina, countering previous Olympic heartbreaks. Through PWL’s alliance with the Wrestling Federation, Indian kushti is surging forward, merging age-old akharas with pro-league excitement.