In a heartfelt revelation, PWL Chairman Dayan Faruqui detailed the extraordinary journey behind the 2026 season trophy, a masterpiece forged from the very earth where India’s wrestling legacy thrives. Every participating team’s akhara soil was painstakingly collected and embedded into the trophy, making it a living symbol of unity and tradition.

Speaking to IANS in Noida, Faruqui explained, ‘From the smallest details to the grand vision, we’ve poured our hearts into this. Our team visited akharas in every state, gathering soil to ensure the trophy pulses with the nation’s wrestling spirit.’ The design also proudly showcases Lord Hanuman’s gada, evoking the divine power that inspires pehlwans.

After six years away, PWL roared back on January 15, with the finale slated for February 1. The auction beforehand was electric: Haryana Thunder’s blockbuster 60-lakh bid for Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Yui Susaki stole the show in women’s play.

UP Dominators secured Antim Panghal at 52 lakh (53kg), Punjab Royals grabbed Ana Godinez for 46 lakh (62kg), and Delhi Dungal Warriors added Anastasia Alpaeva for 27 lakh (76kg). Men’s stars like Robert Baran (55 lakh to Maharashtra Kesari) and Aman Sehrawat (51 lakh to Tigers of Mumbai Dungal) commanded premium prices, reflecting wrestling’s global appeal.

Faruqui waxed poetic on kushti’s soul-stirring essence: ‘The soil evokes raw emotion—goosebumps, tears, racing heart. It’s not merely a sport; it’s India’s pride. PWL victories will echo as national triumphs.’

Spotlighting the Power Minute rule, he noted its role in building endurance for those final, medal-deciding seconds, addressing Olympic near-misses. Partnering with the Wrestling Federation, PWL is transforming Indian wrestling into a powerhouse, blending tradition with modern professionalism.