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{{short description|Indian pole-related sport}}
{{Short description|Indian pole-related sport}}
{{More citations needed|date=November 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date = November 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date = November 2019}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2024}}
{{External links|date=November 2019}}
{{Infobox sport
{{More citations needed|date=November 2019}}
| name      = Mallakhamba
{{copy edit|date=November 2022}}
| image      = Malakhambha pradarshana Nudisir 2015 02.JPG
| alt        =
| caption    = A mallakhamba team performs on the pole, 2015
| union      = Mallakhamb Federation of India
| nickname  = <!-- or |nicknames= -->
| first      = c. 2nd century BCE
| firstlabel =
| registered =
| clubs      =
| contact    =
| team      =
| mgender    = Yes
| type      = Indoor or outdoor, gymnastics, [[pole sports]]
| equipment  = Wrestling grips, vertical pole
| venue      =
| glossary  =
| region    = India
| olympic    = [[1936 Summer Olympics|1936]]
| world      =
| paralympic =
| obsolete  =  
| IWGA      =  
}}
}}
[[File:Malakhambha pradarshana Nudisir 2015 02.JPG|thumb|300px|A mallakhamba team performs on the pole, 2015]]
'''Mallakhamba''', or '''Mallakhamb''' or '''Mallarkambam''' is a [[Traditional games of India|traditional sport]], originating from the [[Indian subcontinent]], in which a group of [[gymnast]]s perform aerial [[yoga]] and [[gymnastic]] postures using [[wrestling]] grips in concert with a stationary vertical pole. The word mallakhamba also refers to the pole used in the sport.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/gamessportscultu0000unse/page/96|title=Games, sports and cultures|date=2000|publisher=Berg|last=Dyck|first=Noel|isbn=1-85973-312-3|location=Oxford|oclc=44485325|page=[https://archive.org/details/gamessportscultu0000unse/page/96 96]}}</ref> The pole is usually made from [[sheesham|shisham]] (Indian rosewood) polished with [[castor oil]].<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=yWVYAAAAYAAJ&q=mallakhamb Sport in the USSR. - Issues 1-12; Issues 286-297, pp.9]</ref> Other popular versions of ''mallakhamba'' are practiced using a cane or a rope instead of a pole.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Bromber |editor1-first=Katrin |editor2-last=Krawietz |editor2-first=Birgit |editor3-last=Maguire |editor3-first=Joseph |title=Sport Across Asia: Politics, Cultures, and Identities |date=2013 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0-415-88438-9 |oclc=800447515 |page=137 }}</ref> The origins of [[pole dancing]] can be traced back to the sport of ''mallakhamba''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kapur |first1=Mallika |title=Aarifa Bhinderwala: India's pioneering pole dancer |url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/09/11/asia/aarifa-bhinderwala-her-india/index.html |work=CNN |date=11 September 2017 }}</ref>
'''Mallakhamba''' or '''mallakhamb''' is a [[Traditional games of India|traditional sport]], originating from the [[Indian subcontinent]], in which a [[gymnast]] performs aerial [[yoga]] or [[gymnastic]] postures and [[wrestling]] grips in concert with a vertical stationary or hanging wooden pole, cane, or rope. The word "mallakhamb" also refers to the pole used in the sport.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/gamessportscultu0000unse/page/96|title=Games, sports and cultures|date=2000|publisher=Berg|others=Dyck, Noel.|isbn=1-85973-312-3|location=Oxford|oclc=44485325|page=[https://archive.org/details/gamessportscultu0000unse/page/96 96]}}</ref> The pole is usually made from [[sheesham]] (Indian rosewood) polished with [[castor oil]].<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=yWVYAAAAYAAJ&q=mallakhamb Sport in the USSR. - Issues 1-12; Issues 286-297, pp.9]</ref> Three popular versions of mallakhamb are practiced using a sheesham pole, cane, or rope.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Sport across Asia: politics, cultures, and identities|date=2013|publisher=Routledge|others=Bromber, Katrin., Krawietz, Birgit., Maguire, Joseph.|isbn=978-0-415-88438-9|location=New York|oclc=800447515|page=137}}</ref> The origins of [[pole dancing]] can be traced back to the sport of mallakhamb.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kapur |first=Mallika |date=2017-09-11 |title=Aarifa Bhinderwala: India's pioneering pole dancer |url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/09/11/asia/aarifa-bhinderwala-her-india/index.html |access-date=2023-08-15 |website=CNN |language=en}}</ref>


The name mallakhamb derives from the terms ''malla'', meaning wrestler, and ''khamb'', which means a pole. Literally meaning "wrestling pole", the term refers to a traditional training implement used by wrestlers.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.evergalax.com/content/mallakhamb|title=Mallakhamb – History, Indian Gymnastic Pole, Information In English|date=12 September 2018|location=Mumbai, India}}</ref>
The name ''mallakhamba'' derives from the terms ''malla'', meaning wrestler, and ''khamba'', which means a pole. Literally meaning "wrestling pole", the term refers to a traditional training implement used by wrestlers.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.evergalax.com/content/mallakhamb|title=Mallakhamb – History, Indian Gymnastic Pole, Information In English|date=12 September 2018|location=Mumbai, India}}{{Dead link|date=August 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>


On April 9, 2013, the Indian state of [[Madhya Pradesh]] declared mallakhamba the state sport. {{As of|2017}}, more than 20 other states in India have followed suit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/india-news/photos-mallakamb-the-art-of-aerial-yoga/photo-P5Ml0CXIN6UMPP5846OexJ.html|title=Mallakamb: The art of aerial yoga|date=2017-06-11|website=Hindustan Times|access-date=2019-11-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114212901/https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/india-news/photos-mallakamb-the-art-of-aerial-yoga/photo-P5Ml0CXIN6UMPP5846OexJ.html|archive-date=November 14, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
On April 9, 2013, the Indian state of [[Madhya Pradesh]] declared ''mallakhamba'' to be an official state sport. By 2017, more than 20 other states in India had added it as one of their state sports.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/india-news/photos-mallakamb-the-art-of-aerial-yoga/photo-P5Ml0CXIN6UMPP5846OexJ.html|title=Mallakamb: The art of aerial yoga|date=2017-06-11|website=Hindustan Times|access-date=2019-11-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114212901/https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/india-news/photos-mallakamb-the-art-of-aerial-yoga/photo-P5Ml0CXIN6UMPP5846OexJ.html|archive-date=November 14, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
[[Chandraketugarh]] pottery (Dated 2nd century BCE - 1st century CE) with narrative figures carved on them show a couple exhibiting gymnastics by hanging on a pole like structure in the shape of a T which is held by another person. In 7th century CE, Chinese Buddhist pilgrim [[Xuanzang|Xuanzhang]] provides evidence of pole climbing of the pillar cult which he witnessed at Prayagraj, he states that Hindu ascetics climbed the top of a pole situated at Prayagraj clinging onto it with one hand and one foot while other hand and foot stretched out in the air and watched sunset with their heads turned right as it set which indicates a solar rite.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Irwin|first=John|date=1983|title=The Ancient Pillar-Cult at Prayāga: Its Pre-Aśokan Origins|url=http://www.jstor.org/stable/25211537|journal=Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland|volume=115|issue=2|pages=253–280|doi=10.1017/S0035869X00137487|jstor=25211537|s2cid=162953368 |issn=0035-869X}}</ref> The earliest literary known mention of mallakhamb is in the 1135 CE Sanskrit classic ''[[Manasollasa]]'', written by a Western Chalukya king [[Someshvara III]]. A [[Rajput]] painting from 1610 CE shows athletes performing various [[acrobatics]], including [[pole climbing]] while dancing to Raga Desahka.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?assetId=123705001&objectId=183952&partId=1|title=painting|website=British Museum|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215155955/https://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?assetId=123705001&objectId=183952&partId=1|archive-date=February 15, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> A Mughal painting from 1670 depicts wrestlers or athletes practicing [[Indian club|club swinging]], weightlifting, and pole climbing similar to mallakhamb.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/6980/9856/0/15059|title=Ashmolean − Eastern Art Online, Yousef Jameel Centre for Islamic and Asian Art|last=Ashmolean Museum|first=University of Oxford|website=jameelcentre.ashmolean.org|language=en|access-date=2019-02-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204231438/http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/6980/9856/0/15059|archive-date=February 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> The art form since remained dormant until it was given a new lease on life by Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, the teacher of [[Peshwa]] [[Baji Rao II]]. During the first half of the 19th century, [[Rani of Jhansi|Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi]] learned mallakhamb with her childhood friends [[Nana Saheb]] and [[Tantia Tope]].<ref>{{Cite book|title=Rani Lakshmibai: the valiant queen of Jhansi|last=Agarwal|first=Deepa|date=2009|publisher=Puffin|isbn=978-0-14-333084-4|location=New Delhi|oclc=666466167}}</ref>
[[File:Performing mallakhamb.jpg|thumb|300px|Performing mallakhamb]]


Mallakhamb as a competitive sport was first time developed by the Mallakhamb Federation of India in January 1981 and the rules and regulations were also introduced for the first time in the First National Championships held from 28 to 29 January 1981.  
Early examples of ''mallakhamba'' are seen on [[Chandraketugarh]] pottery from between the 2nd century BCE and 1st century CE, where figures are shown exhibiting gymnastics by [[hanging]] on a pole like structure in the [[shape]] of a T which is held by another person. In 7th century CE, [[Chinese Buddhist]] [[pilgrim]] [[Xuanzang|Xuanzhang]] provides evidence of pole climbing of the pillar cult which he witnessed at Prayagraj. Xuanzhang records that Hindu ascetics climbed the top of a pole situated at Prayagraj, clinging onto it with one hand and one foot, and watched the sunset with their heads turned to the right as it set, marking it as a type a solar rite.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Irwin |first1=John |title=The ancient pillar-cult at Prayāga (Allahabad): its pre-Aśokan origins |journal=Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain & Ireland |date=April 1983 |volume=115 |issue=2 |pages=253–280 |doi=10.1017/S0035869X00137487 |jstor=25211537 |s2cid=162953368 }}</ref> The earliest mention of ''mallakhamba'' in a literary work is in the 1135 CE Sanskrit classic ''[[Manasollasa]]'', written by the Western Chalukya king [[Someshvara III]]. A [[Rajput]] painting from 1610 CE shows athletes performing various [[acrobatics]], including [[pole climbing]], while dancing to Raga Desahka.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?assetId=123705001&objectId=183952&partId=1|title=painting|website=British Museum|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215155955/https://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?assetId=123705001&objectId=183952&partId=1|archive-date=February 15, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> A Mughal painting from 1670 depicts athletes practicing [[Indian club|club swinging]], weightlifting, and pole climbing similar to ''mallakhamba''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/6980/9856/0/15059|title=Ashmolean − Eastern Art Online, Yousef Jameel Centre for Islamic and Asian Art|last=Ashmolean Museum|first=University of Oxford|website=jameelcentre.ashmolean.org|language=en|access-date=2019-02-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190204231438/http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/6980/9856/0/15059|archive-date=February 4, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>


[[File:Performing mallakhamb.jpg|thumb|300px|Performing mallakhamb]]
Little mention of ''mallakhamba'' exists between the late 17th century to the late 18th century, until it received new interest from Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, the teacher of [[Peshwa]] [[Baji Rao II]]. During the first half of the 19th century, [[Rani of Jhansi|Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi]] learned ''mallakhamba'' with her childhood friends [[Nana Saheb]] and [[Tantia Tope]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Deepa |first1=Agarwal |title=Puffin Lives: Rani Laxmibai: The Valiant Queen of Jhansi |date=2009 |publisher=Penguin Books India PVT, Limited |isbn=978-0-14-333084-4 |oclc=666466167 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=h747vxHZd9wC&q=mallkhamb&pg=PT10#v=snippet&q=mallkhamb&f=false}}</ref>


{{Unreferenced section|date=November 2019}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=November 2019}}
Competitive mallakhamb at the national level first made its appearance in 1958 at the National Gymnastics Championships (NGCs) held at the Pahadganj Stadium, [[Delhi]], [[India]]. The Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) proposed to recognize the game and include it in subsequent NGCs. The first national mallakhamb championships were held in 1962 at [[Gwalior]], [[Madhya Pradesh]], as part of the NGCs. Around 1968, the game was introduced in the All-India Inter-University Gymnastics Championships. The national mallakhamb championships were organized annually by the GFI until 1976. In 1977, these mallakhamb championships were removed from the GFI, and no major championship games were held until 1980.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Ramendra Singh|date=Aug 31, 2020 |title=MP state sport, mallakhamb, makes it to Tokyo Olympics {{!}} Bhopal News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/mp-state-sport-mallakhamb-makes-it-to-tokyo-olympics/articleshow/77843860.cms |access-date=2022-12-03 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref>


Bamshankar Joshi and other mallakhamb enthusiasts at [[Ujjain]], Madhya Pradesh, founded an all-India level organization named the Mallakhamb Federation of India. The first all-India national mallakhamb championships were organized by the new sports association in 1981 from January 28 to 29 at Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The event brought in representatives from all over India; they participated in these championships and this organisation has been registered on 7 June 1984 as Mallakhamb Federation wide registration number 13752. The national mallakhamb championships have since been organized by different state associations affiliated to this federation.
''Mallakhamba'' was [[Indian sports at the 1936 Summer Olympics|demonstrated]] at the [[1936 Summer Olympics]].<ref name="Nag 2021">{{cite web |last=Nag |first=Utathya |date=2021-04-21 |title=Was kabaddi in Olympics? Here's the truth |url=https://olympics.com/en/news/kabaddi-in-olympics-berlin-1936-exhibition-sport |access-date=2024-01-28 |website=Olympics.com}}</ref> Competitive ''mallakhamba'' made its first appearance in 1958 at the National Gymnastics Championships (NGCs) held at the Pahadganj Stadium, [[Delhi]], [[India]]. The Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) proposed to recognize the game and include it in subsequent NGCs. The first national ''mallakhamba'' championships were held in 1962 at [[Gwalior]], [[Madhya Pradesh]], as part of the NGCs. Around 1968, the game was introduced in the All-India Inter-University Gymnastics Championships. The national ''mallakhamba'' championships were organized annually by the GFI until 1976. In 1977, the ''mallakhamba'' championships were removed from the GFI, and no major championship games were held until 1980.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Ramendra Singh|date=Aug 31, 2020 |title=MP state sport, mallakhamb, makes it to Tokyo Olympics {{!}} Bhopal News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/mp-state-sport-mallakhamb-makes-it-to-tokyo-olympics/articleshow/77843860.cms |access-date=2022-12-03 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref>


Competitively, there are several versions but three variations of mallakhamb sport are in practice since 1937:
Bamshankar Joshi and other ''mallakhamba'' enthusiasts in [[Ujjain]], Madhya Pradesh, founded an all-India level organization named the Mallakhamb Federation of India. The first all-India national ''mallakhamba'' championships were organized by the new sports association in 1981 from January 28 to 29 at Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The event brought in representatives from all over India. The national ''mallakhamba'' championships have since been organized by different state associations affiliated to this federation.


# Pole mallakhamb
Competitively, there are three variations of ''mallakhamba'' which have been in practice since 1937:
# Hanging mallakhamb
# Rope mallakhamb


All are practiced by both men and women, though pole mallakhamb is more commonly practiced by men and boys, and rope mallakhamb by women and girls.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Pole dancing, empowerment and embodiment|last=Holland, Samantha.|date=2010|publisher=Palgrave Macmillan|isbn=978-0-230-29043-3|location=Houndmills, Balsingstoke, Hampshire|oclc=688185171|page=62}}</ref>
# Pole ''mallakhamba''
All mallakhamb competitions are organized under the rules made by the Mallakhamb Federation of India, and 28 states are affiliated to the Federation. Himani Uttam Parab won gold medal in rope long set in the first World Mallakhamb Championship 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year |url=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-ankita-raina-a-look-at-players-who-won-prestigious-arjuna-award-this-year-429127 |access-date=2022-05-09 |website=WION |language=en}}</ref>
# Hanging ''mallakhamba''
# Rope ''mallakhamba''
 
All variations are practiced by both men and women, though pole ''mallakhamba'' is more commonly practiced by men, and rope ''mallakhamba'' by women.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Pole dancing, empowerment and embodiment|last=Holland, Samantha.|date=2010|publisher=Palgrave Macmillan|isbn=978-0-230-29043-3|location=Houndmills, Balsingstoke, Hampshire|oclc=688185171|page=62}}</ref> All ''mallakhamba'' competitions are organized under the rules made by the Mallakhamb Federation of India, and 28 states are affiliated to the Federation. Himani Uttam Parab won gold medal in rope long set in the first World Mallakhamb Championship 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year |url=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-ankita-raina-a-look-at-players-who-won-prestigious-arjuna-award-this-year-429127 |access-date=2022-05-09 |website=WION |date=November 13, 2021 |language=en}}</ref>


== Variations and specifications ==
== Variations and specifications ==
=== Pole mallakhamb ===
=== Pole ''mallakhamba'' ===
In this variation, a vertical wooden pole made of [[teak]] wood or [[sheesham]] is fixed to the ground. The pole is smeared with [[castor oil]], which helps to minimize excessive friction. Participants perform various acrobatic feats and poses while hanging on the pole. Wrestlers mount, dismount, and utilize the pole for various complex [[calisthenics]] designed to develop their grip, stamina, and strength in the arms, legs, and upper body.
In this variation, a vertical wooden pole made of [[teak]] wood or [[sheesham]] is fixed to the ground. The pole is smeared with [[castor oil]], which helps to minimize excessive friction. Participants perform various acrobatic feats and poses while hanging on the pole. Wrestlers mount, dismount, and utilize the pole for various complex [[calisthenics]] designed to develop their grip, stamina, and strength in the arms, legs, and upper body.


There are a number of pillars, although the most common is a free-standing upright pole, some eight to ten inches in diameter, planted into the ground. The pole used in competitions is a straight pole made of teak or sheesham wood, standing {{convert|2.6|m|ft}} in height with a circumference of {{convert|55|cm|in}} at the base. It gradually tapers to a circumference of {{convert|35|cm|in}} at the top.
There are a number of different types of pole, although the most common is a free-standing upright pole, some eight to ten inches in diameter, planted into the ground. The pole used in competitions is a straight pole made of teak or sheesham wood, standing {{convert|2.6|m|ft}} in height with a circumference of {{convert|55|cm|in}} at the base. It gradually tapers to a circumference of {{convert|35|cm|in}} at the top.


The specifications of pole mallakhamb are as follows:
The specifications of pole ''mallakhamba'' are as follows:


{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
Line 46: Line 67:
!Height (senior group)
!Height (senior group)
!Height (sub-junior group)
!Height (sub-junior group)
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|-
|-
|Above the ground
|Above the ground
Line 68: Line 91:
|-
|-
!colspan="3"|Circumference  
!colspan="3"|Circumference  
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|-
|-
|Bottom
|Bottom
Line 85: Line 110:
|300
|300
|-
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|}
|}


=== Hanging mallakhamb ===
=== Hanging ''mallakhamba'' ===
This type of mallakhamb is similar to pole mallakhamb, but it uses a wooden pole shorter than the standard pole in pole mallakhamb.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Mallakhamb |url=https://tamilnadumallakhambassociation.com/about-mallakhamb/ |access-date=2022-12-03 |website=Tamilnadu Mallakhamb Association |language=en-US}}</ref> The pole is hung with hooks and a chain, leaving a gap between the ground and the bottom of the mallakhamb.
This type of ''mallakhamba'' is similar to pole ''mallakhamba'', but uses a shorten wooden pole shorter than the one used in pole ''mallakhamba''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Mallakhamb |url=https://tamilnadumallakhambassociation.com/about-mallakhamb/ |access-date=2022-12-03 |website=Tamilnadu Mallakhamb Association |language=en-US}}</ref> Instead of being planted into the ground, the pole is hung with hooks and a chain, leaving a gap between the ground and the bottom of the ''mallakhamba''.
 
The specifications of hanging ''mallakhamba'' are as follows:


The specifications of hanging mallakhamb are as follows:
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
!Range
!Range
!Height
!Height
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|-
|-
|{{Clarify|reason=Missing range|date=November 2019}}
|{{Clarify|reason=Missing range|date=November 2019}}
Line 112: Line 139:
|-
|-
!colspan="2"|Circumference  
!colspan="2"|Circumference  
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|-
|-
|Bottom
|Bottom
Line 122: Line 151:
|250 to 300
|250 to 300
|-
|-
|colspan="2"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|}
|}


=== Rope mallakhamb ===
=== Rope ''mallakhamba'' ===
In this variation, the participant performs exercises while hanging on a rope suspended from a support at the top.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.in.msn.com/gallery/mallakhamb-ancient-indian-sport|title=Mallakhamb: Ancient Indian sport|date=5 December 2012|newspaper=MSN News|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116105646/http://news.in.msn.com/gallery/mallakhamb-ancient-indian-sport|archive-date=16 January 2013|location=India}}</ref> The rope is typically {{Convert|5.5|m|ft|abbr=}} long, and approximately {{Convert|1 to 2|cm|in|abbr=}} in diameter. The rope is caught by the performer in the gap between the big toe and the second toe, along with one or both hands. After climbing upwards on the rope, the performer ties the rope around the body through a sequence of steps. The performer then reaches various positions called ''Udi'' ("to fly"), some of which are imitations of standard [[asana]].
In this variation, the participants perform exercises while hanging on a rope suspended from a support at the top.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.in.msn.com/gallery/mallakhamb-ancient-indian-sport|title=Mallakhamb: Ancient Indian sport|date=5 December 2012|newspaper=MSN News|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116105646/http://news.in.msn.com/gallery/mallakhamb-ancient-indian-sport|archive-date=16 January 2013|location=India}}</ref> The rope is typically {{Convert|5.5|m|ft|abbr=}} long, and approximately {{Convert|1 to 2|cm|in|abbr=}} in diameter. The rope is caught by the performer in the gap between the big toe and the second toe, along with one or both hands. After climbing upwards on the rope, the performer ties the rope around the body through a sequence of steps. The performer then reaches various positions called ''Udi'' ("to fly"), some of which are imitations of standard [[asana]].
 
Rope ''mallakhamba'' was historically performed on a piece of [[Cane (grass)|cane grass]], but due to the lack of access to cane, a cotton rope is commonly used. Performers are expected to perform various exercises without knotting the rope in any way.


Rope mallakhamb was historically performed on a [[Cane (grass)|cane]], but due to the lack of good cane, a cotton rope is used. Performers are expected to perform various exercises without knotting the rope in any way.
The specifications of rope ''mallakhamba'' are as follows:


The specifications of rope mallakhamb are as follows:
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;"
!Dimension
!Dimension
!Measurement (Senior Group)
!Measurement (Senior Group)
!Measurement (Sub-Junior Group)
!Measurement (Sub-Junior Group)
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|-
|-
|Length
|Length
Line 148: Line 179:
|5800 to 6000
|5800 to 6000
|-
|-
|colspan="3"|<small>Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)</small>
|}
|}


== Official international organizations ==
== Official international organizations ==
* Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation (VMF)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/photos/india-news/india-hosts-first-ever-world-mallakhamb-championship-in-mumbai-5590757/|title = India hosts first-ever World Mallakhamb Championship in Mumbai|date = February 20, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/sports/india-win-team-event-at-mallakhamb-world-championship-2039549.html|title = India Win Team Event at Mallakhamb World Championship|date = February 17, 2019}}</ref>
* Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation (VMF)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/photos/india-news/india-hosts-first-ever-world-mallakhamb-championship-in-mumbai-5590757/|title = India hosts first-ever World Mallakhamb Championship in Mumbai|date = February 20, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/sports/india-win-team-event-at-mallakhamb-world-championship-2039549.html|title = India Win Team Event at Mallakhamb World Championship|date = February 17, 2019}}</ref>
* Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW)
* Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW)
Line 159: Line 189:


== Official Indian mallakhamb sport national organizations ==
== Official Indian mallakhamb sport national organizations ==
*'''Mallakhamb Federation''' which is widely known as '''Mallakhamb Federation of India (MFI)''', registered on 7 June 1984<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamb Federation Of India - About MFI |url=https://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/about_mfi.php |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=mallakhambfederationofindia.com}}</ref> with Registration No. 13752 in [[Ujjain]], M.P. It is affiliated with Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=VISHWA MALLAKHAMB FEDERATION |url=https://vishwamallakhamb.com/ |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=vishwamallakhamb.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamb Federation Of India - World Chapionship |url=https://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/world-championship.php |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=mallakhambfederationofindia.com}}</ref> In September 2022, [[The Times of India]] revealed that following allegations for sexual harassment and the failure to comply with the national sports code of India 2011, the MFI's recognition as a National Sports Federation has been withdrawn and its annual financial grant stopped by the sports ministry.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-09-20 |title=Mallakhamb federation's president resigns over sexual harassment charges |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/mallakhamb-federations-president-resigns-over-sexual-harassment-charges/articleshow/94316158.cms |access-date=2023-04-24 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
* '''Mallakhamb Federation''', widely known as '''Mallakhamb Federation of India (MFI)''', registered on 7 June 1984<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamb Federation Of India - About MFI |url=https://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/about_mfi.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220104105643/http://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/about_mfi.php |url-status=usurped |archive-date=January 4, 2022 |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=mallakhambfederationofindia.com}}</ref> with Registration No. 13752 in [[Ujjain]], M.P. It is affiliated with Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=VISHWA MALLAKHAMB FEDERATION |url=https://vishwamallakhamb.com/ |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=vishwamallakhamb.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamb Federation Of India - World Championship |url=https://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/world-championship.php |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=mallakhambfederationofindia.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230424110618/https://mallakhambfederationofindia.com/world-championship.php|archive-date=24 April 2023|url-status=usurped}}</ref> In September 2022, ''[[The Times of India]]'' revealed that following allegations for sexual harassment and the failure to comply with the national sports code of India 2011, the MFI's recognition as a National Sports Federation was withdrawn and its annual financial grant stopped by the sports ministry.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hussain |first1=Sabi |title=Mallakhamb federation's president resigns over sexual harassment charges |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/mallakhamb-federations-president-resigns-over-sexual-harassment-charges/articleshow/94316158.cms |work=The Times of India |agency=TNN |date=20 September 2022 }}</ref>
*'''Mallakhamb Sports Federation of India (MSFI)''' has been affiliated with Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW), Asian Mallakhamb Federation (AMF), South Asian Mallakhamb Federation (SAMF).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamba {{!}} Facebook |url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/1455914291329179/ |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=www.facebook.com |language=en}}</ref>
* '''Mallakhamb Sports Federation of India (MSFI)''' has been affiliated with Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW), Asian Mallakhamb Federation (AMF), South Asian Mallakhamb Federation (SAMF).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mallakhamba |url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/1455914291329179/ |access-date=2023-04-24 |publisher=Facebook|language=en}}</ref>
 
===Indian National Sports Award recipients===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="width:73%"
! scope="col" style="width:10%" | Year
! scope="col" style="width:30%" | Recipient
! scope="col" style="width:19%" | Award
! scope="col" style="width:16%" | Gender
! scope="col" style="width:10%" | Ref(s)
|- {{anchor|MallakhambAA}}
| style="text-align:center;" |2020
! scope="row" | {{sortname|Yogesh|Malviya|nolink=1}}
| [[Dronacharya Award]] || Male || <ref>{{cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1647633|title=National Sports Awards 2020 announced – Rohit Sharma, Mariyappan T., Manik Batra, Ms Vinesh and Ms Rani bag the Khel Ratna|date=2020-08-21|publisher=Press Information Bureau Delhi|access-date=2024-08-07}}</ref>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" |2021
! scope="row" | {{sortname|Himani|Parab|nolink=1}}
| rowspan="2" | [[Arjuna Award]] || Female || <ref>{{cite web|url=https://alumni.deccansociety.org/newsroom/news/Kirti-College-student-Ms-Himani-Parab-won-the-Arjuna-Award-2021.dz|title=Kirti College student Ms. Himani Parab won the Arjuna Award 2021|date=2021-12-11|publisher=Deccan Education Society Alumni Network|access-date=2024-08-07}}</ref>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" |2022
! scope="row" | {{sortname|Sagar Kailas|Ovhalkar|nolink=1}}
| Male || <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-chemburs-mechanical-engineer-becomes-first-man-to-receive-arjuna-award-for-mallakhamb|title=Mumbai: Chembur's mechanical engineer becomes first man to receive Arjuna Award for Mallakhamb|date=2022-12-18|publisher=The Free Press Journal|access-date=2024-08-07}}</ref>
|}


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Bo-taoshi]]
* [[Bo-taoshi]]
* [[Chinese pole]]
* [[Chinese pole]]
* [[Insuknawr]]
* [[Kalaripayattu]]
* [[Kalaripayattu]]
* [[Malla-yuddha]]
* [[Malla-yuddha]]
* [[Pole dance]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 173: Line 224:


==Further reading==
==Further reading==
* ''Mallakhamb: An Investigation Into the Indian Physical Practice of Rope and Pole Mallakhamb'' by Jon Burtt, Edith Cowan University, 2010.
* {{Cite thesis |last1=Burtt |first1=Jon |title=Mallakhamb: An investigation into the Indian physical practice of rope and pole Mallakhamb |date=2010 |url=https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1870/ }}
** {{Cite book|title=Mallakhamb: An Investigation Into the Indian Physical Practice of Rope and Pole Mallakhamb|last=Burtt|first=Jon|work=International Journal of the Arts in Society|publisher=Edith Cowan University|year=2010}}
* {{Cite web|title=IndiaPress.org|work=Listing of traditional games and sports of India|url=http://sports.indiapress.org/mallakhamb.php|accessdate=April 1, 2007}}
* {{Cite web|title=mallkhambindia.com|work=Mallakhamb: The Authentic Indian Sport|url=http://www.mallkhambindia.com/|accessdate=April 1, 2007|archive-date=May 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100515144433/http://mallkhambindia.com/|url-status=dead}}
* {{Cite web|title=aquafishsilver.com|work="MALLAKHAMB" – A Great Traditional Ancient Art of Indian Physical Culture.|url=http://www.aquafishsilver.com/aquafishsilver/mbfwhtml/healthandfitness_mallakhamb_the_complete_body_workout.html|accessdate=April 1, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070702144200/http://www.aquafishsilver.com/aquafishsilver/mbfwhtml/healthandfitness_mallakhamb_the_complete_body_workout.html|archive-date=July 2, 2007|url-status=dead}}
* {{Cite book|editor-last=Mujumdar|editor-first=D.C.|title=The Encyclopedia of Indian Physical Culture|publisher=Baroda: Sree Ram Vijaya Printing Press|year=1950}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20101210030821/http://library.thinkquest.org/11372/data/mallakhamb.htm Mallakhamb] on [[ThinkQuest]] (archive)


== External links ==
== External links ==
{{commons category|Malkhamb}}
{{Commons category|Malkhamb}}
* [http://www.mallakhambindia.com Mallakhamb India website]  
* [http://www.mallakhambindia.com Mallakhamb India website]  
* [https://mallakhambinusa.org/ Mallakhamb in USA website]
* [https://mallakhambinusa.org/ Mallakhamb in USA website]
*{{Cite web|title=IndiaPress.org|work=Listing of traditional games and sports of India|url=http://sports.indiapress.org/mallakhamb.php|accessdate=April 1, 2007}}
*{{Cite web|title=mallkhambindia.com|work=Mallakhamb: The Authentic Indian Sport|url=http://www.mallkhambindia.com/|accessdate=April 1, 2007}}
*{{Cite web|title=aquafishsilver.com|work="MALLAKHAMB" – A Great Traditional Ancient Art of Indian Physical Culture.|url=http://www.aquafishsilver.com/aquafishsilver/mbfwhtml/healthandfitness_mallakhamb_the_complete_body_workout.html|accessdate=April 1, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070702144200/http://www.aquafishsilver.com/aquafishsilver/mbfwhtml/healthandfitness_mallakhamb_the_complete_body_workout.html|archive-date=July 2, 2007|url-status=dead}}
*{{Cite book|editor-last=Mujumdar|editor-first=D.C.|title=The Encyclopedia of Indian Physical Culture|publisher=Baroda: Sree Ram Vijaya Printing Press|year=1950}}
* https://web.archive.org/web/20101210030821/http://library.thinkquest.org/11372/data/mallakhamb.htm
*https://www.news18.com/news/sports/india-win-team-event-at-mallakhamb-world-championship-2039549.html
*https://indianexpress.com/photos/india-news/india-hosts-first-ever-world-mallakhamb-championship-in-mumbai-5590757/


[[Category:Gymnastics]]
[[Category:Cultural history of Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Indian inventions]]
[[Category:Culture of Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Exercise equipment]]
[[Category:Gymnastics apparatus]]
[[Category:Gymnastics apparatus]]
[[Category:Exercise equipment]]
[[Category:Gymnastics disciplines]]
[[Category:Sport in Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Sports originating in India]]
[[Category:Traditional sports of India]]
[[Category:Traditional sports of India]]
[[Category:Sports originating in India]]
[[Category:Yoga]]
[[Category:Culture of Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Sport in Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Wrestling in India]]
[[Category:Wrestling in India]]
[[Category:Cultural history of Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Indian inventions]]

Latest revision as of 23:23, 27 November 2025


Mallakhamba
A mallakhamba team performs on the pole, 2015
Highest governing bodyMallakhamb Federation of India
First playedc. 2nd century BCE
Characteristics
Mixed genderYes
TypeIndoor or outdoor, gymnastics, pole sports
EquipmentWrestling grips, vertical pole
Presence
Country or regionIndia
Olympic1936

Mallakhamba, or Mallakhamb or Mallarkambam is a traditional sport, originating from the Indian subcontinent, in which a group of gymnasts perform aerial yoga and gymnastic postures using wrestling grips in concert with a stationary vertical pole. The word mallakhamba also refers to the pole used in the sport.[1] The pole is usually made from shisham (Indian rosewood) polished with castor oil.[2] Other popular versions of mallakhamba are practiced using a cane or a rope instead of a pole.[3] The origins of pole dancing can be traced back to the sport of mallakhamba.[4]

The name mallakhamba derives from the terms malla, meaning wrestler, and khamba, which means a pole. Literally meaning "wrestling pole", the term refers to a traditional training implement used by wrestlers.[5]

On April 9, 2013, the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh declared mallakhamba to be an official state sport. By 2017, more than 20 other states in India had added it as one of their state sports.[6]

History[edit | edit source]

Performing mallakhamb

Early examples of mallakhamba are seen on Chandraketugarh pottery from between the 2nd century BCE and 1st century CE, where figures are shown exhibiting gymnastics by hanging on a pole like structure in the shape of a T which is held by another person. In 7th century CE, Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Xuanzhang provides evidence of pole climbing of the pillar cult which he witnessed at Prayagraj. Xuanzhang records that Hindu ascetics climbed the top of a pole situated at Prayagraj, clinging onto it with one hand and one foot, and watched the sunset with their heads turned to the right as it set, marking it as a type a solar rite.[7] The earliest mention of mallakhamba in a literary work is in the 1135 CE Sanskrit classic Manasollasa, written by the Western Chalukya king Someshvara III. A Rajput painting from 1610 CE shows athletes performing various acrobatics, including pole climbing, while dancing to Raga Desahka.[8] A Mughal painting from 1670 depicts athletes practicing club swinging, weightlifting, and pole climbing similar to mallakhamba.[9]

Little mention of mallakhamba exists between the late 17th century to the late 18th century, until it received new interest from Balambhatta Dada Deodhar, the teacher of Peshwa Baji Rao II. During the first half of the 19th century, Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi learned mallakhamba with her childhood friends Nana Saheb and Tantia Tope.[10]

Mallakhamba was demonstrated at the 1936 Summer Olympics.[11] Competitive mallakhamba made its first appearance in 1958 at the National Gymnastics Championships (NGCs) held at the Pahadganj Stadium, Delhi, India. The Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) proposed to recognize the game and include it in subsequent NGCs. The first national mallakhamba championships were held in 1962 at Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, as part of the NGCs. Around 1968, the game was introduced in the All-India Inter-University Gymnastics Championships. The national mallakhamba championships were organized annually by the GFI until 1976. In 1977, the mallakhamba championships were removed from the GFI, and no major championship games were held until 1980.[12]

Bamshankar Joshi and other mallakhamba enthusiasts in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, founded an all-India level organization named the Mallakhamb Federation of India. The first all-India national mallakhamba championships were organized by the new sports association in 1981 from January 28 to 29 at Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The event brought in representatives from all over India. The national mallakhamba championships have since been organized by different state associations affiliated to this federation.

Competitively, there are three variations of mallakhamba which have been in practice since 1937:

  1. Pole mallakhamba
  2. Hanging mallakhamba
  3. Rope mallakhamba

All variations are practiced by both men and women, though pole mallakhamba is more commonly practiced by men, and rope mallakhamba by women.[13] All mallakhamba competitions are organized under the rules made by the Mallakhamb Federation of India, and 28 states are affiliated to the Federation. Himani Uttam Parab won gold medal in rope long set in the first World Mallakhamb Championship 2019.[14]

Variations and specifications[edit | edit source]

Pole mallakhamba[edit | edit source]

In this variation, a vertical wooden pole made of teak wood or sheesham is fixed to the ground. The pole is smeared with castor oil, which helps to minimize excessive friction. Participants perform various acrobatic feats and poses while hanging on the pole. Wrestlers mount, dismount, and utilize the pole for various complex calisthenics designed to develop their grip, stamina, and strength in the arms, legs, and upper body.

There are a number of different types of pole, although the most common is a free-standing upright pole, some eight to ten inches in diameter, planted into the ground. The pole used in competitions is a straight pole made of teak or sheesham wood, standing 2.6 metres (8.5 ft) in height with a circumference of 55 centimetres (22 in) at the base. It gradually tapers to a circumference of 35 centimetres (14 in) at the top.

The specifications of pole mallakhamba are as follows:

Range Height (senior group) Height (sub-junior group)
Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)
Above the ground 2600 to 2800 2400 to 2600
Under the ground 800 to 900 700 to 800
Neck 180 to 200 180 to 200
Top 70 60
Total length 3400 to 3700 3100 to 3400
Circumference
Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)
Bottom 530 to 550 480 to 500
Below the neck 300 to 350 300 to 350
Neck 180 to 200 180 to 200
Top 350 300

Hanging mallakhamba[edit | edit source]

This type of mallakhamba is similar to pole mallakhamba, but uses a shorten wooden pole shorter than the one used in pole mallakhamba.[15] Instead of being planted into the ground, the pole is hung with hooks and a chain, leaving a gap between the ground and the bottom of the mallakhamba.

The specifications of hanging mallakhamba are as follows:

Range Height
Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)
[clarification needed] 1700 to 1900
Neck height 180 to 200
Top height 70
Distance between bottom and ground 650 to 700
Height of the structure 4600 to 4800
Circumference
Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)
Bottom 4500 to 5000
Neck 180 to 200
Below the neck 250 to 300

Rope mallakhamba[edit | edit source]

In this variation, the participants perform exercises while hanging on a rope suspended from a support at the top.[16] The rope is typically 5.5 metres (18 ft) long, and approximately 1 to 2 centimetres (0.39 to 0.79 in) in diameter. The rope is caught by the performer in the gap between the big toe and the second toe, along with one or both hands. After climbing upwards on the rope, the performer ties the rope around the body through a sequence of steps. The performer then reaches various positions called Udi ("to fly"), some of which are imitations of standard asana.

Rope mallakhamba was historically performed on a piece of cane grass, but due to the lack of access to cane, a cotton rope is commonly used. Performers are expected to perform various exercises without knotting the rope in any way.

The specifications of rope mallakhamba are as follows:

Dimension Measurement (Senior Group) Measurement (Sub-Junior Group)
Note: All dimensions are in millimeters (mm)
Length 6000 to 6500 6000 to 6500
Thickness 18 to 20 12 to 13
Height of the structure 5800 to 6000 5800 to 6000

Official international organizations[edit | edit source]

  • Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation (VMF)[17][18]
  • Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW)
  • Asian Mallakhamb Federation (AMF)
  • South Asian Mallakhamb Federation (SAMF)
  • Mallakhamb Federation USA (MFU)

Official Indian mallakhamb sport national organizations[edit | edit source]

  • Mallakhamb Federation, widely known as Mallakhamb Federation of India (MFI), registered on 7 June 1984[19] with Registration No. 13752 in Ujjain, M.P. It is affiliated with Vishwa Mallakhamb Federation.[20][21] In September 2022, The Times of India revealed that following allegations for sexual harassment and the failure to comply with the national sports code of India 2011, the MFI's recognition as a National Sports Federation was withdrawn and its annual financial grant stopped by the sports ministry.[22]
  • Mallakhamb Sports Federation of India (MSFI) has been affiliated with Mallakhamb Confederation of World (MCW), Asian Mallakhamb Federation (AMF), South Asian Mallakhamb Federation (SAMF).[23]

Indian National Sports Award recipients[edit | edit source]

Year Recipient Award Gender Ref(s)
2020 Yogesh Malviya Dronacharya Award Male [24]
2021 Himani Parab Arjuna Award Female [25]
2022 Sagar Kailas Ovhalkar Male [26]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Dyck, Noel (2000). Games, sports and cultures. Oxford: Berg. p. 96. ISBN 1-85973-312-3. OCLC 44485325.
  2. ↑ Sport in the USSR. - Issues 1-12; Issues 286-297, pp.9
  3. ↑ Bromber, Katrin; Krawietz, Birgit; Maguire, Joseph, eds. (2013). Sport Across Asia: Politics, Cultures, and Identities. Routledge. p. 137. ISBN 978-0-415-88438-9. OCLC 800447515.
  4. ↑ Kapur, Mallika (September 11, 2017). "Aarifa Bhinderwala: India's pioneering pole dancer". CNN.
  5. ↑ "Mallakhamb – History, Indian Gymnastic Pole, Information In English". Mumbai, India. September 12, 2018.[permanent dead link]
  6. ↑ "Mallakamb: The art of aerial yoga". Hindustan Times. June 11, 2017. Archived from the original on November 14, 2018. Retrieved November 24, 2019.
  7. ↑ Irwin, John (April 1983). "The ancient pillar-cult at Prayāga (Allahabad): its pre-Aśokan origins". Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain & Ireland. 115 (2): 253–280. doi:10.1017/S0035869X00137487. JSTOR 25211537. S2CID 162953368.
  8. ↑ "painting". British Museum. Archived from the original on February 15, 2019. Retrieved February 15, 2019.
  9. ↑ Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford. "Ashmolean − Eastern Art Online, Yousef Jameel Centre for Islamic and Asian Art". jameelcentre.ashmolean.org. Archived from the original on February 4, 2019. Retrieved February 4, 2019.
  10. ↑ Deepa, Agarwal (2009). Puffin Lives: Rani Laxmibai: The Valiant Queen of Jhansi. Penguin Books India PVT, Limited. ISBN 978-0-14-333084-4. OCLC 666466167.
  11. ↑ Nag, Utathya (April 21, 2021). "Was kabaddi in Olympics? Here's the truth". Olympics.com. Retrieved January 28, 2024.
  12. ↑ Ramendra Singh (August 31, 2020). "MP state sport, mallakhamb, makes it to Tokyo Olympics | Bhopal News - Times of India". The Times of India. Retrieved December 3, 2022.
  13. ↑ Holland, Samantha. (2010). Pole dancing, empowerment and embodiment. Houndmills, Balsingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan. p. 62. ISBN 978-0-230-29043-3. OCLC 688185171.
  14. ↑ "From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year". WION. November 13, 2021. Retrieved May 9, 2022.
  15. ↑ "About Mallakhamb". Tamilnadu Mallakhamb Association. Retrieved December 3, 2022.
  16. ↑ "Mallakhamb: Ancient Indian sport". MSN News. India. December 5, 2012. Archived from the original on January 16, 2013.
  17. ↑ "India hosts first-ever World Mallakhamb Championship in Mumbai". February 20, 2019.
  18. ↑ "India Win Team Event at Mallakhamb World Championship". February 17, 2019.
  19. ↑ "Mallakhamb Federation Of India - About MFI". mallakhambfederationofindia.com. Archived from the original on January 4, 2022. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
  20. ↑ "VISHWA MALLAKHAMB FEDERATION". vishwamallakhamb.com. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
  21. ↑ "Mallakhamb Federation Of India - World Championship". mallakhambfederationofindia.com. Archived from the original on April 24, 2023. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
  22. ↑ Hussain, Sabi (September 20, 2022). "Mallakhamb federation's president resigns over sexual harassment charges". The Times of India. TNN.
  23. ↑ "Mallakhamba". Facebook. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
  24. ↑ "National Sports Awards 2020 announced – Rohit Sharma, Mariyappan T., Manik Batra, Ms Vinesh and Ms Rani bag the Khel Ratna". Press Information Bureau Delhi. August 21, 2020. Retrieved August 7, 2024.
  25. ↑ "Kirti College student Ms. Himani Parab won the Arjuna Award 2021". Deccan Education Society Alumni Network. December 11, 2021. Retrieved August 7, 2024.
  26. ↑ "Mumbai: Chembur's mechanical engineer becomes first man to receive Arjuna Award for Mallakhamb". The Free Press Journal. December 18, 2022. Retrieved August 7, 2024.

Further reading[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

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