India witnessed a historic sporting achievement when 16-year-old Hardeep Chhillar clinched the gold medal in the men’s 110kg Greco-Roman wrestling category at the 2025 U17 World Wrestling Championships held in Athens, Greece.
His victory not only marks India’s first-ever world title in this heavyweight Greco-Roman category at the U17 level but also puts a new spotlight on Haryana’s Mandothi village, long associated with a violent past rooted in wrestler-gangster culture. Defying expectations and overcoming a steep deficit, Hardeep’s story is one of grit, resilience, and the transformative power of sport.
A Defining Comeback and Technical Masterclass
The championship final was a tense and hard-fought battle against Iran’s Yazdan Delrouz. Hardeep trailed 0-3 at halftime, with Delrouz exhibiting superior technical prowess early in the match. However, displaying mature composure beyond his years, Hardeep adjusted his strategy to focus on stamina and tactical manoeuvres.
The turning point came with his deft use of the “Duck under” technique—a move that enabled him to reverse positions and score critical points. The match concluded 3-3, but on technical criteria—an evaluation system that rewards technical superiority and activity—Hardeep was declared the winner.
Coach Gurpreet Singh applauded Hardeep’s mental toughness and ability to adapt mid-match. “His resolve to not get discouraged when down on points, and his ability to execute the technique flawlessly when it mattered, is the mark of a true champion,” Singh said. Wrestling experts have noted that India traditionally excels in freestyle wrestling, but Hardeep’s success in the Greco-Roman style signals a promising shift and diversification in the country’s wrestling capabilities.
From Personal Loss to Sporting Glory
Hardeep’s journey is deeply inspiring beyond the mat. Orphaned at the age of eight following a tragic road accident that claimed his parents, Hardeep was taken in and raised by his uncle, Jasbir Singh. Jasbir’s sacrifices have been immense; he quit his job and sold agricultural land to fund Hardeep’s rigorous training at the Sonu Akhada, which is managed by Arjuna awardee Dharmendra Dalal in their native Mandothi village.
Despite the rising prominence of wrestling in India, government support for athletes like Hardeep remains limited. He currently receives a modest stipend under the Sports Authority of India’s scheme, which barely meets the high costs of nutritious diet, physiotherapy, and international exposure required for elite performance. Yet, his determination, rooted deeply in the wrestling heritage of his father and grandfather, has propelled him forward. Hardeep’s story embodies the potent mix of family sacrifice, community support, and sheer willpower.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Hardeep’s victory rewrites this narrative, portraying Mandothi as a cradle of sporting excellence and hope. His triumph has already begun inspiring young wrestlers in the region, encouraging them to pursue sports as a pathway to transform lives.
The Logical Indian views Hardeep’s achievement as more than just a sports victory; it is a testament to the social and cultural power of perseverance, community upliftment, and positive change. By celebrating such stories, we underscore the need to nurture talent regardless of background, promote inclusivity, and foster empathy within society. In doing so, we can collectively contribute to turning overlooked regions into beacons of inspiration.
Golden🥇 glory for Hardeep at the U17 World #Wrestling🤼♀ Championship 2025🥳
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) July 30, 2025
Hardeep claimed the top spot, clinching Gold🥇 in the Men's 110kg Greco-Roman category at the U17 World Wrestling🤼♀ Championship 2025 in Greece🇬🇷
A proud moment for India🇮🇳 on the global mat!… pic.twitter.com/LraHjtbXcR
