Under‑20 World Championship: Tanu Sharma’s Silver Medal Honours Her Hometown

Tanu Sharma, a rising star from Haryana, earned a silver medal in the 72 kg category at the Under‑20 World Wrestling Championship staged in Slovakia. Her podium finish has cast a bright spotlight on the small village of Bakhlaana, stirring pride among residents.

In a closely fought final, Sharma was edged out by Japan’s Chisato Yoshida with a 5-3 scoreline, missing the top spot. Unfazed, she announced her intention to target gold at the next world event, pledging to bring further honor to her community.

During a post‑match interview, Sharma expressed heartfelt thanks to God, her family, and the Wrestling Federation of India. She described the medal as more than a personal triumph—it represents the aspirations of her village and the nation.

Her parents shared touching anecdotes: her father Veerendra noted her competitive spirit since childhood, while her mother Sumana recounted the celebratory feast of milk, yogurt, juice, and almonds that she prepared for the victorious daughter. The family also recalled earlier successes at the Khelo India Youth Games, where Tanu collected bronze medals in Bhopal and Nagaland and a gold in Chennai.

Coach Sanjay Sia, who first enrolled her in his training center, and her uncle, retired army officer Narendra Sharma, have been instrumental in guiding her from a local akhada to the world stage, illustrating the power of grassroots support in Indian sports.