New Delhi, September 17 (Daily Kiran) : Indian wrestler Manisha is preparing for her debut at the Asian Games 2026, facing a new challenge as she transitions from the 62-kilogram to the 57-kilogram weight category. In this shift, she has focused on enhancing her strength and technique while developing the ability to wrestle from both stances.
“I used to primarily compete from my right side, but now I’ve started wrestling from the left as well. I’m working on both stances because I want to feel comfortable playing from either side. While I’m honing my strength and technique, the most crucial aspect is changing my mindset and adapting to the new category,” Manisha explained.
The Asian Games hold special significance for her, marking her first participation in this prestigious event. After representing India for some time, she expressed that competing at such a high level brings a unique excitement. Her primary goal remains clear: to deliver her best performance on the mat.
“I have been representing India for a while, but the Asian Games are particularly special. Every athlete dreams of representing India, so I’m a bit excited since this is my first Asian Games. My aim is simply to perform at my best. Mentally, I’m prepared, maintaining my momentum and getting ready,” she added.
Manisha’s wrestling journey began in 2013 when her father encouraged her to join a fitness camp. What started as a way to improve her fitness soon transformed as she realized her potential in the sport. The initial pressures and doubts have been replaced with mental strength, especially since 2021.
“When I started, I felt pressured and had doubts. However, since 2021, I have become mentally stronger. Even when I get injured and miss competitions, I continue to practice. If you work hard and desire it with all your heart, how can it not happen?” she said.
She credits the Indian team’s training camp for her preparation, where the environment fosters learning and encourages athletes to bring out the best in one another. The presence of Japanese coach Kosei Akashi, who is also the head coach at IIS, has further enhanced the team’s readiness. His technical insights have been invaluable in helping her adapt to the 57-kilogram category.
“I am focusing a lot on my technique, especially since I am wrestling from both stances now. Coach Akashi is also helping us significantly, teaching us a lot. The Indian team camps are very beneficial; we learn from each other, and training together allows us to give our best,” she stated.
Manisha has received considerable support from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), where she has trained for a significant part of her career. “I have been associated with IIS for a long time, and they’ve supported me immensely. From supplements to training, they have taken care of all my needs, and that support has been crucial for me,” she noted.
Beyond her ambitions, Manisha finds motivation in seeing young girls from her village take up wrestling. She enjoys coaching young athletes and helping them progress, providing her with another way to contribute to the sport she has embraced for years.
“It makes me happy when people from my village see me. I love seeing young girls follow in my footsteps. As a coach, I enjoy teaching kids and watching them grow. It feels great when you see someone inspired by you entering this sport,” she remarked.
As she prepares to step onto the mat for her first Asian Games, Manisha remains focused on her goals, driven by years of hard work and a determined mindset. “Challenges are many, but hard work makes everything possible. If it were easy, everyone would do it.”
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