Lalit Kumar: Wrestling icon's take on coaching and family priorities
Wrestling maestro Lalit Kumar shares insights on coaching and family dynamics
- By Gurmehar --
- Sunday, 17 Dec, 2023
Lalit Kumar, a hands-on coach with a keen eye for talent, has been recommended for the prestigious Dronacharya Award for 2023. Notably, Lalit follows a 'horses-for-courses' coaching philosophy, adapting his methods based on individual needs. Despite lacking the imposing presence of Chhatrasal Stadium's 'Mahabali' Satpal Singh, Lalit's coaching prowess has left a lasting impact on Indian wrestling over the past 11 years.
From the mat to coaching: Lalit's inspirational journey
Hailing from a family deeply rooted in wrestling, Lalit's own wrestling aspirations were curtailed by recurring injuries. Undeterred, he pursued coaching, completing a diploma course from the National Institute of Sport in 2006. Lalit's coaching journey began in Uttar Pradesh before he returned to Delhi, ultimately finding his place at the renowned Chhatrasal Stadium in 2013.
Balancing act: family sacrifices and coaching commitments
Lalit's commitment to coaching is evident in his daily routine, starting at 4 am and continuing with two five-hour coaching sessions at Chhatrasal Stadium. However, the dedication comes at a personal cost. Earlier this year, Lalit faced a family crisis while away on a coaching assignment in Russia, where his daughter suffered a severe injury. Despite occasional complaints from family members about his prioritization, Lalit remains steadfast in his mission to groom wrestling talents.
The recognition of Lalit Kumar for the Dronacharya Award not only honors his coaching excellence but also breaks an 11-year wait for Chhatrasal Stadium since its last recipient, Yashvir Singh, in 2012. Lalit's impact on wrestlers like Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia underscores the technical and scientific approach he brings to modern wrestling coaching.
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