27-05-2025
'All Indians are my brothers. Zindabad Hindustan': Iranian wrestler lifts title as 'Dangal' returns to J-K's Ramban after 5 years
Iranian wrestler Ahmad Mirza Puria. (PTI)
NEW DELHI: Iranian wrestler Ahmad Mirza Puria emerged victorious against Punjab's Bupinder Ajnala in a traditional wrestling bout ('Dangal') held in the hilly district of Ramban, Jammu and Kashmir, marking the return of the event after a five-year gap.
'Thank you so much, I am very happy. All Indians are my brothers. Hindustan Zindabad!' said Puria, visibly emotional after his win, as the crowd erupted in applause.
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Held for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, the wrestling competition took place at Chanderkote and featured over 50 participants from across India and Iran. The 'Dangal' was organised by the Dangal Committee Chanderkote in collaboration with local police and the Army, drawing hundreds of enthusiastic spectators.
'This was the fifth Dangal in the district and attracted athletes from different parts of the country and Iran as well,' said a member of the organising committee.
Ramban MLA Arjun Singh Raju commended the organisers, particularly police officer Majid Ali, for hosting the event and said the competition sent out a clear message of peace and resilience.
'It showed that the security situation in the Union Territory is peaceful in the aftermath of the
Pahalgam terror attack
and Operation Sindoor to destroy terror infrastructure across the border,' he said.
'Our forces are very strong and there is no danger. The event, including the participation of foreign wrestlers, was a great reply to terrorists who wanted to destroy our brotherhood,' the National Conference legislator added. He also urged local youth to embrace sports and stay away from drugs.
Ramban SSP Kulbir Singh expressed satisfaction over the smooth conduct of the event and the overwhelming public response.
