Deepak Punia - A Lifestory
For The Cricketer: Punia: Batting Strong, Hitting Boundaries, Winning Hearts

Deepak Punia is a prominent Indian wrestler, specializing in freestyle wrestling. Born on May 19, 1999, he hails from Chhara village in Jhajjar district, Haryana. Punia's journey in wrestling began at a young age, nurtured by the traditional wrestling culture prevalent in his region. He quickly rose through the ranks, displaying exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His training regimen is known for its intensity and discipline, contributing significantly to his success on the mat.
Punia's international breakthrough came with his impressive performances at the junior level. He secured a gold medal at the 2016 Cadet World Wrestling Championships and followed it up with a gold at the 2018 Junior World Wrestling Championships. These victories signaled his arrival as a future star in Indian wrestling. Transitioning to the senior level, Punia continued his medalwinning streak. A significant achievement was his silver medal at the 2019 World Wrestling Championships in NurSultan, Kazakhstan. This performance not only solidified his position among the world's elite wrestlers but also earned him a quota place for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
At the Tokyo Olympics, Punia carried the hopes of a nation, although he narrowly missed out on a medal. Despite the setback, his participation showcased his resilience and determination on the world's biggest sporting stage. He competes in the 86 kg weight category and is known for his powerful technique and strategic approach to wrestling. Punia's achievements have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Arjuna Award, one of India's highest sporting honors. He continues to be a role model for aspiring wrestlers in India, inspiring them with his hard work and commitment to excellence.