dangals

Dangals are traditional wrestling events common in parts of India, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and surrounding regions, as well as in South Asian communities abroad. The term dangal refers both to the sport of wrestling, known as kushti or pehlwani, and to the organized competition itself. A dangal typically gathers wrestlers from nearby villages to compete in a series of bouts at an outdoor arena called an akhara or ring.

Matches are usually fought on a dirt or clay surface, and participants often wear a langoti (loincloth). The rules and formats vary by region, but a winner is generally decided by a fall (pin) or by points after a set number of rounds. Dangals emphasize strength, technique, and conditioning, and many events feature prize money or trophies as incentives. They also function as social gatherings, drawing local spectators and offering a platform for wrestlers to gain recognition.

Historically, dangals are a fixture of traditional Indian wrestling and are closely associated with Kushti, the broader sport in which wrestlers train in an akhara and practice with specific conditioning and grappling techniques. In modern times, some dangals have incorporated standardized rules and sponsorships while preserving regional customs and formats. The concept gained international attention with the 2016 film Dangal, which portrays wrestlers and their training within a family context. Today, dangals continue to be held across India and in diaspora communities, reflecting the sport’s cultural heritage and ongoing popularity.