KATHMANDU- 6 years ago, Bhagawati Khadka became the first Nepali female wrestler, a rising beacon for women empowerment. By showcasing spectacular fights, she stages an everyday struggle against the inequity faced by most women in Hindu countries. Putting forward on the ring: beauty, strength, and independence, to an increasing crowd eager to see more from these warriors.
The following portraits of these fierce athletes illustrate the foundation of a new combat sport and the evolution of women status in Nepal.
Bhagawati Khadka: Nepal’s first female Wrestler
By © Bryan Kulka, Kathmandu Tribune, Nepal Tribune Media Pvt. Ltd.
Her journey in wrestling started the day she met the notorious Himalayan Tiger; the first international wrestling superstar proudly carrying the Nepali flag around world championships. Before that encounter, Bhagawati Khadka had what was then just a dream:
Huge fan of the spectacular stunts and acts performed by the incredible WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) beasts she watched fight each other in the ring as she grew up, she always hoped to one day have the chance to join their sides.
But how could she? Nepal is a very traditional country who still struggles to come in terms with women displaying strength or taking a step in the “men’s clubs”. And if it had not been for the support and the training she received from the Himalayan Tiger, she would have maybe never tried to implement and popularize this discipline in her country.
“I started by doing a few matches on the international stages in the U.S to gain recognition. It was very difficult.“
By © Bryan Kulka, Kathmandu Tribune, Nepal Tribune Media Pvt. Ltd.
In 2017, she registers the Nepal Women Wrestling Foundation.
“I had no money, no support from the government. It took 3 months to go through the administrative paperwork. It never takes that much time. But it did for me. I think people had trouble getting used to the idea women can fight.”
The year before, in 2016, she got the chance to join the Ohio Training team in the U.S. But it required a recommendation from the Ministry of Sport which refused to deliver it to her. Because they didn’t consider Women Wrestling a Sport. “They are scared it will have a bad reflexion” said Bhagawati Khadka
“A Lot of people tried to stop me. Mostly badly talking about what I was doing, and Newspapers wrote bad things about me. On Facebook, people were posting pictures and, making fun of me. Men Wrestlers were also against me. Nobody wanted to be our referees.”
Gunaraj Rutchal, a world-famous Muaythai fighter, 2-time gold medalist in foreign competitions was very interested in wrestling. He became their referee after gladly accepting their invitation and become one of their chairperson.
“We need to promote women wrestling in Nepal. It promotes self-defense for girls, who especially need it in this part of the world. It is also a valuable life lesson. It teaches you how to take a punch, fall, but always get back up. We are all 100% involved in that cause. A chairperson even sold his bike once to organize an event.” Gunaraj Rutchal said.
Asmita Jureli “You can be an inspiration to others !”
By © Bryan Kulka, Kathmandu Tribune, Nepal Tribune Media Pvt. Ltd.
Jureli was also trained by the Himalayan Tiger. She joined the venture just a year after her close friend, Bhagawati Khadka. They are the two leaders of women wrestling in Nepal. And if one day it becomes part of their culture, they will both be remembered as the founders alongside legends you only come across in the hall of fame.
While Bhagawati Khadka is now concentrated on the prospects she can open in her country, Jureli still dreams of an international career. But far from seeking personal glory, she wants to become an example.
“This is what I always say to women who think about joining us: Please come. It gives you self-esteem, self-defense skills, and it empowers you! Don’t let anyone stop you. If you want to join us, we are here to support you. It is not for us, it’s for yourself, your personality development. You can be an inspiration to others.“
“Every sector, women should go in front and not be afraid. If you want to be successful you can’t be afraid. You need to give 100% and there will be no boundaries to what you can achieve. I think wrestling teaches you that: Do not be afraid, and give 100%.“
By © Bryan Kulka, Kathmandu Tribune, Nepal Tribune Media Pvt. Ltd.
Prince Aadvanshi: India’s Wrestling superstar gives his full support
Like Jureli and Bhagawati Khadka, Prince Aadvanshi started as a stunt actor on movie sets. He went through a lot of struggles before becoming a superstar back in India. Today, he regularly visits Nepal to help the Women Wrestling Foundation by giving out new material and offering to fight during their events.
“Wrestling is in the blood. It is not a kid’s game. You need to be brave. I see something in these 2 women: Potential.”
“I am sure they will be famous one day.”
By © Bryan Kulka, Kathmandu Tribune, Nepal Tribune Media Pvt. Ltd.
