In a mesmerizing display of strength and skill, Nanded’s wrestling sensation Shivraj Rakshe emerged victorious in the 65th Maharashtra Kesari Wrestling Tournament, clinching the prestigious ‘Maharashtra Kesari’ title. The electrifying final match, held at the Patil Sports City in Dharashiv, showcased the epitome of Maharashtra’s wrestling prowess.
The wrestling extravaganza, organized by the Adarsh Shikshan Prasarak Mandal, Zilla Talim Sangh, and Maharashtra Kustigir Parishad, spanned four action-packed days, drawing talented wrestlers from every corner of the state. The grand finale witnessed a clash of titans as Shivraj Rakshe faced off against Harshvardhan Sadgir of Nashik.
Shivraj Rakshe’s moment of glory unfolded in a fiercely contested mat wrestling match, where he outclassed his opponent with a decisive 6-0 victory. The victory not only earned Rakshe the coveted ‘Maharashtra Kesari’ title but also the admiration of wrestling enthusiasts from across Maharashtra.
The intensity of the competition reached its zenith in the penultimate match, where Rakshe clashed with Prithviraj Mohol of Mumbai Western Suburbs in the Gadi group. Rakshe’s undeniable prowess led to a resounding 6-0 win, setting the stage for the ultimate face-off in the title match.
Harshvardhan Sadgir’s journey to the final was equally commendable, securing his spot by defeating Ganesh Jagtap of Hingoli in the clay group with a 2-6 victory. The clash of styles and determination between Sadgir and Rakshe captivated the audience, turning the spotlight on Maharashtra’s rich wrestling heritage.
Amidst the cheers and anticipation, Rakshe was crowned the ‘Maharashtra Kesari,’ receiving the Maharashtra Kesari Kitab, a Mahindra Scorpio, and the traditional silver mace from the Mohol family. Harshvardhan Sadgir, the runner-up, was honored with a Mahindra car and a silver mace dedicated to the memory of the revered leader Pratapsinh Mohite Patil.
The event was graced by renowned personalities, including Olympic bronze medalist Yogeshwar Dutt, Maharashtra Kesari Rahul Aware, and Arjuna awardee Kakasaheb Pawar, among others. Wrestling aficionados, former wrestlers, and dignitaries added to the electrifying atmosphere, making the 65th Maharashtra Kesari Tournament a spectacle to remember.
