Chinese wrestler in Haripur. Photo: Express
HARIPUR:
The Chinese wrestler who accepted the Mongli lifting challenge from Jawad Pehlwan arrived in Haripur to a warm and traditional welcome, where cultural sports were showcased before the start of the official competition.
Jawad Pehlwan had given an open challenge to lift his traditional Mongli (Indian Club) of 82 kilograms.
The Chinese wrestler failed to lift even half the weight and later accepted Jawad Pehlwan as his mentor.
In his post, the Chinese wrestler said that he came to Pakistan from the United States and accepted the challenge while he was in America.
He announced that he would soon start a Mongli club in China and return with his entire team to learn from Jawad Pehlwan. He also expressed his intention to invite Jawad Pehlwan to China to train players there so that the traditional art can be introduced to the whole world, adding that Pakistani athletes are very strong.
Local dignitaries from Dheri village attended the event. Fakhar-e-Hazara Liaquat Pehlwan and Naveed Pehlwan demonstrated Gatka, while Ustad Tariq showcased his fencing.
Sixty-five-year-old Mongli master Noor Elahi captivated the spectators by spinning the Mongli with remarkable skill. Security guards were also present.
The land of Hazara has long been home to wrestlers and brave men, and the Haripur competition continues this tradition. The event was not just a sporting competition but a meeting of two cultures.
The 82 kg Mongli presented a major challenge, and the Chinese wrestler’s inability to lift even half his weight was described as evidence of the exceptional strength and technique of Pakistani wrestlers.
After admitting defeat, the Chinese wrestler officially became a disciple of Jawad Pehlwan, calling it a gesture of sportsmanship. Cultural performances in Dheri village showcased Hazara heritage. Master Noor Elahi has demonstrated that age is no barrier to skill and passion.
The announcement of the establishment of a Mongli club in China and the invitation of Jawad Pehlwan to train has been called a major success for Pakistan’s traditional sports, potentially boosting tourism and culture. Locals said the victory was a matter of pride for the region and Pakistan, proving that traditional sports still have the potential to gain international recognition.
