The correlation between strength and endurance determines a wrestler’s performance. Strength always plays a vital part in wrestling. It is difficult to visualize that one of the world’s best professional wrestlers was so weak during his childhood that he was unable to even hold a glass of a water by himself. Imagine a child who has spent hours and hours of his childhood in a wheelchair and his only hope almost died when modern science and medicine also closed the door for him. However, Sangram’s willpower and determination changed the whole equation of his life. He became the first wrestler to represent his country India in amateur wrestling and became the world’s best professional wrestler in 2012. He is the brand ambassador for worthy causes such as People for Animal (PFA), Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre, Wrestling Federation of India (2014-15) and International Human rights Organization. His biggest aim is to spread the message of natural healthy life amongst the youth for good health, sports, and education. He has all the qualities of being a great human being.

You won Commonwealth Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. How big of a challenge was this for you?S: I returned to professional wrestling after a 3 year gap. I trained differently and vigorously. I have overcome all my physical disabilities with my willpower and attitude and I believe nothing is impossible for me. I was the first Indian to sign a death contract for this championship. According to which, the organizers cannot be held responsible for any casualty during the last-man-standing fight. I made my country proud by defeating Canada's Joe Legend to win the WWP Commonwealth Championship at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in South Africa on 18th July 2015.

Can you describe your childhood/early days? Can you share how your willpower helped you to overcome obstacles? What inspired you to become a wrestler?S: Nothing is impossible in life if you put your mind to it. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in my childhood that led to major health consequences. I spent around 8 years in a wheelchair and my hands and legs stopped working. My childhood as a rheumatoid arthritis patient was very tough. Initially wheelchairs were not available in my village. I used to lay on the bed all day. All the doctors had given up hope. With the help of natural medicines, family support, and will power, I overcame my ailments. My mom taught me one lesson that there are two types of people, ones who read the history, and others who make history. It depends on you. Do not give up and always be positive. In my vocabulary, the word “No” does not exist. My definition of “No” is next opportunity.
In my village Madina wrestling is a respected sport and my brother was a state level wrestler. These factors and my determination drove me to become a wrestler.

How many wrestling awards have you won so far? Which one is your favorite and why?S: I won lot of wrestling awards such as 2012 World’s best professional wrestler, National medal for senior wrestling championship, World Senior Wrestling Championship at Hungary and so on. I felt very happy upon receiving first national award. All these awards are special and inspire me to do better.

What kind of daily routine do you need to keep for staying fit for wrestling?S: My daily routine is very simple. I do power yoga at morning and workout 2-3 times a day. I am on a strict pure vegetarian diet. “Stay positive” is my mantra for staying fit.

Which world wrestler you admire the most and why?S: I admire all the world’s wrestlers. Russian wrestlers are best in the amateur category - Artur Taymazov is one of my favorite. Within professional wrestlers, I admire American wrestlers John Cena and Kurt Angle. They all have kept themselves fit.

What do you like to do in your free time?S: I love to read good books, workout, and meditate.

What is your favorite place to visit and why?S: Few of my favorite places are Cape Town, Russia, New Zealand, and Colorado Springs Olympic training center in USA. I love places where nature is peaceful, appealing and has lots of greenery.

What are your other hobbies?S: I love to act in Bollywood movies and participate in TV Reality shows. In addition, I love to play sports with kids.

Any special message for our community?S: “Everything is Possible…nothing is impossible in Life.” No challenge is too big. Stay focused on your goal.

Sangram has special affection for children. He wants to do something bigger, something more impactful. He wants to support children for studies and sports.