At the 2026 Asian Games, athlete Pinky Balhara demonstrated outstanding results in Kurash, adding another award to India's collection. Pinky won the bronze medal in the women's -78 kg weight category.
In the semi-finals, she faced Mo Sumin from South Korea, resulting in a loss with a score of 0-5. After losing in the semi-finals, she managed to secure the bronze medal. This marks Pinky's second silver-medal finish at the Asian Games. Pinky's victory has once again drawn attention to Kurash, raising questions about what this sport is and how it is conducted.
Kurash is a traditional form of wrestling and jiu-jitsu originating from Central Asia. Its origins are traced back to the region of modern Uzbekistan. In this sport, participants attempt to throw their opponent to the mat while remaining standing.
Kurash is recognized as one of the oldest martial arts in the world, and according to data from the International Kurash Association, its traditions date back approximately 3500 years. In the past, it was used not only for military training but also during festivals and public events.
Although Kurash superficially resembles wrestling, the rules are significantly different. The main difference is the absence of ground fighting; the match is contested exclusively on your feet. Athletes attempt to apply various throwing techniques by gripping their jackets. As soon as one participant falls onto the mat, the action is paused, and the bout resumes in a standing position.
Points in Kurash are awarded depending on the method of taking down the opponent and the quality of the throw executed. Three main terms are used in the game for scoring points:
- Khalol (Halal/Khalol): The most effective throw, where the player completely controls the opponent and throws them onto their back.
- Yonbosh: Also an effective throw, but it ranks below Khalol in terms of control, strength, or landing quality.
- Chala: A throw considered effective, but which does not reach the level of Yonbosh.
Furthermore, there are prohibited techniques. In Kurash, players are forbidden from punching or using kicks. Neck grabs, submission or chokeholds, and grabbing under the belt are also prohibited. Thus, in this sport, not only physical strength but also correct timing, grip technique, and throwing technique are critically important.
To develop Kurash as a modern international sport, the International Kurash Association (IKA) was founded in 1998. Since then, the sport has gained international recognition and become part of major events such as the Asian Games. Pinky Balhara's bronze medal at the 2026 Asian Games has once again brought this traditional sport to the forefront in India.