Sushil Kumar Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Sushil Kumar Solanki, popularly known as Sushil Kumar, is one of India’s greatest wrestlers. He made history by winning two Olympic medals — a bronze in Beijing 2008 and a silver in London 2012. Known for his strength, technique, and discipline, Sushil Kumar is regarded as a pioneer who placed Indian wrestling on the global map in the modern era.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Sushil Kumar Solanki
- Date of Birth: 26 May 1983
- Birthplace: Baprola village, Delhi, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
- Weight Category: 66 kg (Wrestling)
- Build: Strong & Muscular
His stamina, strength, and technical skills made him one of the most successful freestyle wrestlers India has ever produced.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Sushil was born into a humble family. His father, Diwan Singh, was a bus driver, and his mother, Kamla Devi, a homemaker.
Early Passion for Wrestling
Growing up in Baprola village, Sushil was inspired by traditional wrestling (kushti) at local akhadas. He developed a passion for the sport early on and decided to pursue it professionally.
Education Journey
He attended Government School in Baprola, but his main focus remained wrestling. Later, he trained at the Chhatrasal Stadium Akhada in Delhi, balancing education with his wrestling ambitions.
Introduction to Wrestling
Early Training at Akhada
Sushil began wrestling at the age of 14 at the Chhatrasal Stadium, a renowned wrestling training center in Delhi.
Coaches & Mentorship
He trained under the guidance of Yashvir Singh and Ramphal Mann, who shaped his skills and discipline.
Rise in Professional Wrestling
Sushil quickly rose through national ranks, dominating domestic championships and earning a place in the Indian wrestling squad.
National Career Highlights
- Multiple-time National Wrestling Champion.
- Represented Delhi and India in numerous domestic competitions.
International Career Highlights
Olympic Medals (2008, 2012)
- 2008 Beijing Olympics: Won bronze medal in 66kg freestyle, ending India’s 56-year wait for an Olympic wrestling medal.
- 2012 London Olympics: Won silver medal, becoming the first Indian wrestler to win two Olympic medals.
Commonwealth Games Glory
- 2010 Commonwealth Games (Delhi): Won gold medal in front of home fans.
- 2014 Commonwealth Games (Glasgow): Won another gold medal.
World Championships
- 2010 World Wrestling Championships (Moscow): Won gold medal, becoming India’s first world champion in wrestling.
Records & Milestones
- First Indian wrestler to win two Olympic medals.
- World Champion (2010) in 66kg freestyle.
- Multiple Commonwealth Games gold medalist.
- Inspired a new generation of Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia and Yogeshwar Dutt.
Awards & Honors
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2009).
- Arjuna Award (2006).
- Padma Shri (2011).
- Numerous state and national honors for his contribution to wrestling.
Beyond Wrestling
Sushil Kumar has served in the Indian Railways and contributed to training young wrestlers. He also worked as a mentor for upcoming athletes.
Personal Life
Sushil Kumar is married to Savi Kumar, and the couple has two sons. He is deeply connected to his roots and has always emphasized discipline and hard work.
Legacy & Inspiration
Sushil Kumar’s achievements elevated Indian wrestling to global recognition. His Olympic medals inspired a wave of young wrestlers and helped India emerge as a wrestling powerhouse. He remains a role model for aspiring athletes who dream of excelling in sports despite humble beginnings.
FAQs about Sushil Kumar
Q1: When was Sushil Kumar born?
A: 26 May 1983, in Baprola, Delhi.
Q2: What is Sushil Kumar famous for?
A: Winning two Olympic medals in wrestling (2008 bronze, 2012 silver).
Q3: How many medals has Sushil Kumar won at the Commonwealth Games?
A: He won two gold medals (2010, 2014).
Q4: Did Sushil Kumar win a World Championship medal?
A: Yes, he won gold at the 2010 World Wrestling Championships.
Q5: What awards has Sushil Kumar received?
A: Padma Shri, Khel Ratna, and Arjuna Award.
Q6: Who was Sushil Kumar’s coach?
A: He trained under Yashvir Singh and Ramphal Mann.
