SHOWDOWN ON THE SOIL OF MOKAMA

SHOWDOWN ON THE SOIL OF MOKAMA

3-APRIL-ENG 2

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA-------------------------An international wrestling extravaganza—a 'Mahadangal'—is being organized today in Mokama, Bihar. This event is being hosted in Nadwan village by Anant Singh, the MLA from Mokama and a prominent strongman leader. According to reports, the Mokama MLA has organized this event to mark the death anniversary of the renowned strongman and wrestler, Viveka Pehalwan. He claims that a crowd of 8 to 10 lakh people is expected to gather for this program. Considerable enthusiasm regarding the event is palpable across the region.

Reports confirm that Ashok Choudhary, a minister in the Bihar government, is slated to attend the event. Additionally, invitations have been extended to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, his son Nishant Kumar, as well as several other political leaders and public representatives. Wrestlers from various states across India, as well as from abroad, are participating in this grand wrestling tournament. Renowned wrestlers from Iran—such as Hamid, Irfan, and Jalal—are expected to be in attendance. Furthermore, there is talk of the arrival of Georgian wrestler Teddu Pehalwan. Several celebrated wrestlers from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra will also demonstrate their skills and techniques in the arena. A special wrestling arena (*akhada*) has been constructed within the village specifically for this purpose.

This 'Mahadangal' is being regarded as the first major public event hosted by Anant Singh since his release from jail. He was recently released from Beur Jail after securing bail from the Patna High Court in connection with the Dularchand Yadav murder case. He has been personally observed overseeing the preparations for the event.

The wrestling tournament is being organized in memory of Viveka Pehalwan, a wrestler who had previously won the prestigious 'Bihar Kesari' title. He was renowned for his rigorous daily regimen and exceptional physical fitness. According to his family members, he would consume several liters of milk daily, perform thousands of push-ups and squats, and engage in long-distance running.

The administration has implemented robust security measures in anticipation of the 'Mahadangal.' In addition to the deployment of police forces, private security personnel will also be present at the venue. Special arrangements have been put in place for crowd management and for maintaining surveillance at the entry points. Adequate arrangements for food and water have been made for visitors to the venue. A large-scale community kitchen (*Bhandara*) will be organized. Additionally, in view of the summer heat, arrangements have been made for tents, sheds, and water sprinkling. First-aid facilities will also be available.