For example, the notion of a ‘martial body’ held a distinct political significance in colonial India. The assertion of martial traditions by different caste groups further fuelled the spread of akharas as centres for promoting physical culture. The recent involvement of women in sports, notably wrestling, has triggered a transformation in gender dynamics within the field. However, women now increasingly perceive wrestling and sports as pathways to freedom, mobility (both social and spatial), pride, recognition, and incentives. Wrestling, along with sports in general, thus becomes a realm where gender norms are transcended.

Source: The Telegraph October 25, 2023 04:17 UTC