Mumbai, July 11: Devgan Marandi, hailing from Godda district in Jharkhand, has made a remarkable debut in international mixed martial arts (MMA), representing India. Competing in Kolkata, he secured a swift victory against a fighter from Nepal in just 70 seconds.
Prior to this international match, Devgan participated in 14 national-level MMA fights across various locations, including Uttarakhand, Delhi, Goa, and Chhattisgarh. Out of these, he faced defeat in only three bouts.
Devgan completed his schooling from Bethal Mission School in Mahagama, where he studied from nursery to 10th grade. He later passed his intermediate exams from Satyam Web Bhagalpur School. In 2023, he began preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Delhi but was unsuccessful after nearly a year of preparation. During this time, he developed an interest in fighting, inspired by his roommate Anurag, who frequently watched UFC fights. Devgan then trained for three years at the ‘House of Gladiators’ academy in Delhi, with his favorite fighter being Jon Jones.
Devgan’s father, Sanjhala Marandi, is a retired employee from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) in Lalmatiya. He has seven brothers and one elder sister, Gulabi Marandi, who is preparing to become a teacher. One of his brothers works in a private job, while the others are focused on their studies and job preparations.
Devgan shared, “We are seven brothers and one sister. I am the fourth among them. My sister is preparing to become a teacher, and one brother is working in a private job in Bokaro. My father retired from ECL in 2023 and receives a pension of 30,000 rupees per month.”
He added, “I prepared for the NDA but was unsuccessful. My roommate watched Ultimate Fighting Championship, which inspired me to pursue this sport. I joined an academy in New Delhi, where the coaches always encouraged me. I trained for three and a half years. I have played 14 MMA matches, losing only three. I won the India vs. Nepal match on June 27, finishing it in the first round within 70 seconds. I dedicate this achievement to my country, my family, Jharkhand, and the tribal community. I urge people to support me; I aim to go far in this sport.”
Devgan has requested financial assistance from Chief Minister Hemant Soren and has sought sponsorship from Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) to further his career. He believes that this support will help him excel in sports and bring recognition to the country. Local residents feel that Devgan’s achievement will help elevate the status of the tribal community on both national and international platforms.
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