The Cataclysm of Paradox: Grouping and Post-Identification

Introduction

Categorization—the systematic labeling and organizing of people, places, events, and activities—forms the cornerstone of governance and politics. Wrestling, one of the world’s oldest sports, exemplifies this concept. While its exact origins remain unclear, evidence such as the wall paintings in Egypt’s Beni Hasan tombs, dating back to 2100 BCE, highlights its ancient roots.

In India, wrestling has become a defining sport, symbolizing both cultural tradition and international success. Along with shooting, wrestling boasts one of the highest medal counts for India at the Olympics. Unique among Indian sports, wrestling has produced two Olympic medalists for the nation, a testament to its prominence. Despite its achievements, the sport also showcases a history of missed opportunities and near victories that reflect its enduring resilience on the global stage.

The Paris 2024 Olympics brought the complexities of categorization into sharp focus. While classifications such as weight categories maintain fairness, they also reveal the biases and challenges of rigid systems. For instance, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified for exceeding her weight limit by 100 grams—a disqualification she did not contest. Similarly, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif faced disqualification due to a confidential gender eligibility test, highlighting the fluid and often contested nature of identity in sports.

The journeys of Indian women wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat spotlight the resilience and determination required to succeed in a male-dominated field. Phogat’s story of perseverance, from winning gold medals at the Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, 2022) to representing India in three Olympics, reflects the evolving landscape of Indian wrestling, where tradition meets modern challenges.

The Fluctuations of Categories

Olympic wrestling features two distinct disciplines: Greco-Roman and Freestyle. In Greco-Roman wrestling, competitors are restricted to using only their arms and upper bodies for offensive moves, while Freestyle wrestling permits the use of legs and holds below the waist. Wrestlers can secure victory through a fall, by accumulating points, or by achieving technical superiority, which involves leading by 10 points. The scoring system rewards wrestlers for the complexity and execution of their moves, demanding both skill and strategy.

Despite its structural clarity, the categorization in wrestling—and sports at large—often clashes with evolving perceptions of individuality and identity. Historically, modernity has celebrated individualism as a marker of social progress, often viewing traditional communal bonds as regressive. Yet, the rigidity of categories like gender and ethnicity continues to provoke debate. For instance, questions around Kamala Harris’s ethnicity—whether she is more Asian-American or African-American—underscore the complexities of identity in an interconnected world.

In sports, categories such as weight and gender remain essential but are increasingly scrutinized. Wrestling, in particular, exemplifies these tensions. Over the centuries, Indian wrestling (known as kushti) has evolved, incorporating Persian and Mongolian influences while maintaining its distinct traditions. Training centers, or akhadas, have long served as the breeding ground for wrestlers, emphasizing discipline, respect, and physical excellence. Wrestlers, or pehlwans, adhere to rigorous routines and austere lifestyles to maintain peak performance.

The biological basis of categories, such as sex, remains a point of contention. Notable thinkers like Prof. Richard Dawkins argue that sex is one of the few immutable categories in nature, as procreation depends on the union of distinct male and female reproductive cells. However, modern ideologies emphasizing gender as a personal choice challenge these binaries, fueling social and political debates, particularly in the West.

The Legacy of Indian Wrestling

Indian wrestling boasts a rich legacy deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural and social fabric. Freestyle wrestling, in particular, has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s Olympic success. Unlike Greco-Roman wrestling, which has seen limited representation by Indian athletes, Freestyle wrestling thrives in northern and western India, regions with a deep cultural connection to the sport.

Indian wrestlers have contributed significantly to the nation’s sporting achievements. Their performances at the Olympics highlight not only their skill but also the resilience required to overcome systemic challenges. While medal counts remain relatively modest, the near-misses and consistent representation at international events underscore the sport’s potential. For example, the pressures faced by today’s wrestlers are offset by the inspiration drawn from recent successes, fostering mental toughness and determination.

Events like annual dangal competitions and the Pro Wrestling League further amplify wrestling’s appeal, providing platforms for emerging talent to showcase their skills. These events blend tradition with modern formats, attracting audiences across age groups and geographies, while highlighting the adaptability of Indian wrestling.

Conclusion

The evolution of Indian wrestling reflects broader societal shifts, from rigid categorizations to a more nuanced understanding of identity. As advancements in science and technology challenge traditional norms, debates surrounding categories like gender and individuality are likely to intensify. These debates, far from being resolved, highlight the transformative nature of modernity, where technology not only uncovers new realities but also creates them.

Indian wrestling’s legacy, rooted in ancient traditions, continues to inspire. From its mythological origins to its modern-day successes, the sport symbolizes discipline, dedication, and resilience. The achievements of Indian wrestlers on the global stage underscore their ability to adapt and excel, even in the face of adversity.

As the nation invests in infrastructure and training, the future of Indian wrestling appears promising. With sustained effort and support, the sport will not only thrive but also inspire generations to uphold the values of perseverance and excellence. The recent successes at the Paris Olympics reaffirm this enduring spirit, setting the stage for even greater accomplishments in the years to come.

Reference(s):

1. Reports by Times of India
2. Reports on Indian Express Sports Section https://www.google.com/amp/s/indianexpress.com/about/the-sports-column-by-sandeep-dwivedi/lite
3. Report reviewed from the times of India
4. Sportstar edition of month july 2024 by the editor

5. In the recent study by Ashok Chandra

6. Paris Olympics detailed analysis by gaurav narang