Sakshi Malik Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Sakshi Malik is a trailblazing Indian wrestler who made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal. She won bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics, etching her name in Indian sports history. Known for her strength, determination, and fighting spirit, Sakshi continues to inspire millions of young athletes, especially women, across the country.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Sakshi Malik
- Date of Birth: 3 September 1992
- Birthplace: Mokhra village, Rohtak district, Haryana, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 4 inches (162 cm)
- Weight Category: 58–62 kg (Wrestling)
- Build: Strong & Muscular
Her strength and technique make her a formidable opponent on the wrestling mat.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Sakshi was born into a humble family in Haryana. Her father, Sukhbir Malik, worked as a bus conductor in Delhi Transport Corporation, and her mother, Sudesh Malik, was an Anganwadi worker.
Early Passion for Wrestling
Growing up in Haryana, a hub of wrestling, Sakshi was inspired by the sport at an early age, despite wrestling being considered male-dominated in her region.
Education Journey
She pursued her studies at Vaish Girls Senior Secondary School, Rohtak, and later completed a degree in Physical Education from Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak.
Introduction to Wrestling
Early Training at Akhada
Sakshi began training at the age of 12 under Ishwar Dahiya at an akhada in Rohtak. She faced resistance initially but her dedication soon silenced critics.
Coaches & Mentors
Under coach Ishwar Dahiya’s guidance, Sakshi developed into a skilled wrestler with a focus on freestyle wrestling.
Rise in Professional Wrestling
Sakshi steadily progressed through national and international tournaments, building her reputation as one of India’s top women wrestlers.
National Career Highlights
- Multiple National Championship medals in freestyle wrestling.
- Established herself as one of India’s leading women wrestlers before Rio 2016.
International Career Highlights
2014 Commonwealth Games
- Won silver medal in the women’s 58kg category at Glasgow, Scotland.
2016 Rio Olympics
- Made history by winning bronze in the 58kg freestyle category, becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal.
- Her victory was celebrated across India as a landmark moment for women’s sports.
Asian Championships & Other Wins
- Multiple medals at the Asian Wrestling Championships.
- Gold medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Wrestling Championship (South Africa).
Records & Milestones
- First Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal (2016 Rio).
- Multiple medals at Commonwealth and Asian Championships.
- Role model for aspiring women wrestlers in India.
Awards & Honors
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2016).
- Padma Shri (2017).
- Arjuna Award (2016).
- Cash rewards and recognition from central and state governments.
Beyond Wrestling
Sakshi works to promote women’s participation in sports. She is also employed with the Indian Railways as a senior official and often speaks on gender equality in athletics.
Personal Life
Sakshi married fellow wrestler Satyawart Kadian in 2017. The couple is admired as a power pair in Indian wrestling.
Legacy & Inspiration
Sakshi Malik’s journey from a small village in Haryana to the Olympic podium is an inspiring story of perseverance and courage. She broke gender stereotypes and proved that women wrestlers from India can succeed on the biggest stages. Her legacy continues to motivate future athletes.
FAQs about Sakshi Malik
Q1: When was Sakshi Malik born?
A: 3 September 1992, in Mokhra village, Haryana.
Q2: Why is Sakshi Malik famous?
A: For being the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal.
Q3: Which medal did Sakshi win at the Rio 2016 Olympics?
A: She won a bronze medal in freestyle wrestling (58kg).
Q4: Who was Sakshi Malik’s coach?
A: Ishwar Dahiya.
Q5: What awards has Sakshi Malik received?
A: Padma Shri, Khel Ratna, and Arjuna Award.
Q6: Who is Sakshi Malik’s husband?
A: Fellow wrestler Satyawart Kadian.
