In Sakshi’s footsteps, 3 from Rohtak’s wrestling nursery earn Asian Games berths

Rohtak: As dawn breaks over Rohtak, the grounds of Sir Chhotu Ram Stadium come alive. Young women circle the track, pushing through another demanding training session. For many, the dream is to wear India colours and represent the country on the biggest stage.That dream has moved a step closer for three wrestlers from the stadium. Mansi Ahlawat (62kg), Deepanshi Phogat (50kg) and Manisha Bhanwala (57kg) have been selected to represent India at the Asian Games 2026. The trio secured their spots during the Wrestling Federation of India trials in New Delhi, the same trials that drew attention after Vinesh Phogat failed to make the national squad.In the past, the Sir Chhotu Ram Stadium Wrestling Academy has produced Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik, whose success transformed the sporting aspirations of countless girls across Haryana and beyond.Every day begins at 5am. Under the eyes of govt wrestling coach Mandeep Singh, the athletes complete their outdoor conditioning before moving into the indoor wrestling hall, where intense bouts and technical training sessions continue for hours. In the corners of the hall, parents quietly watch and cheer, sharing in the sacrifices and hopes of their daughters.Daily, more than 100 women from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra train at the academy. Many have left their homes and families behind, hoping to carve out a place for themselves in Indian wrestling.Coach Mandeep Singh, who trained Sakshi from 2010 until her historic Olympic bronze medal in 2016, believes her success changed the mindset of parents across the country. "Sakshi's medal ignited hope among families. Parents started bringing their daughters to wrestling academies with the belief that they too could achieve international success," he said.According to the coach, 30 international medal-winning wrestlers continue to train at the stadium regularly.The rise of Mansi, Deepanshi and Manisha reflects not only individual determination but also the strength of Haryana's wrestling culture, he said. For Mansi Ahlawat, the academy has been instrumental in shaping her career. "I am in the squad because of the training and mentorship I received here," she said. "This academy is helping many girls like me turn their dreams of winning medals into reality."