The Amit Kumar Dahiya story: From humble backgrounds to Commonwealth gold through Chhatrasal!
The Haryana wrestler was inspired by two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar
Amit Kumar Dahiya, a member of the Indian wrestling contingent at the 2012 Olympics, was one of the most promising names in the sport in his heydays. At 18 years old, he was the youngest wrestler ever to represent India at the Olympics while also being the youngest athlete of the 2012 Indian Olympic delegation.
However, his story to the top was one of defying financial odds and one which he recounted recently in a chat with wrestling superstar Sushil Kumar.
"We never had proper food to eat, lived in a poor household. My father used to sell milk and bring it for us," the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist told Sushil Kumar on his YouTube channel.
In his early days, Dahiya trained with coach Hansraj in his village in Haryana. But after recognizing his talent, former Asian and Commonwealth Games medallist Satpal Singh took him under his wings and he started training at the famed Chhatrasal Stadium, New Delhi - the home to some of the top Indian wrestlers.
He was also inspired by two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar who also was a product of Chhatrasal, incidentally.
"I was nine-year-old when I came here. A lot of aspiring wrestlers had come here (New Delhi). I saw you (Sushil Kumar) at the 2004 Olympics and win the medal in 2008. We later played together at 2012. When I was at the (2013) World Championships final, Sushil Kumar, told me that you'll not get this chance again," Dahiya said.
Dahiya has also clinched a silver medal at the 2013 World Championships in 55kg category. He also has a gold and one bronze medal to his name at the Asian Wrestling Championships.
He was not able to replicate his success later on at the international level. But there is no doubt that wrestling helped the 27-year-old improve his lifestyle and secure the future of his family.
His efforts were also recognized by the Haryana government as they offered him a position in their office.
"A sportsman does everything honestly and with hard work. He listens to his coach and then can serve the nation as the government helps them a lot. Whoever will practice and work hard can help secure the future of their family," he said.