Over 125 participants celebrate the ancient martial art in a spectacular display of tradition and expertise
Usha International, a leader in India’s consumer durables industry, joined hands with the Tulja Bhavani Mardani Khel Prashikshan va Sanskrutik Seva Sanstha, Pimpri, to present the Usha Mardani Khel State-Level Competition in Maharashtra, at Swatantra Veer Sawarkar Bhavan, Nigdi. The event witnessed over 125 martial artists across 12 groups showcasing Mardani Khel – a centuries-old traditional martial art with deep cultural roots in Maharashtra.
The event was inaugurated by Mr Subhash Dagadkhair, a President’s Medal awardee for Meritorious Service and the first policeman to win the Merlin Award, along with Mr Nitin Dada Lokhande, Director of Tuljabhavani Mardani Khel Prashikshan V Sanskrutic Seva Sanstha, Pune.
Other guests of honour included Mr Sudhir Thorat, Member of Shri Shivaji Smarak Mandal, Maharashtra; Mr Ravindra Patil, President of History Prabodhan Sanstha; Mr Suresh Tapkir, Industrialist from Lonavala; Dr Nilesh Jadhav from the Archaeology Department, Deccan College, Pune; and Mr Kunalji Malusare, descendant of Tanaji Malusare.
While winners and runners-up won shields and medals, all participants were awarded certificates for their contribution to keeping the tradition alive. To add to the excitement, there was also a lucky draw with the winner walking away with a special gift from Usha.
Celebrating inclusivity and culture, women and men adorned their traditional Nauvari sarees and mandchol tunics, respectively, while showcasing their mastery over both offensive and defensive combat skills using a variety of weapons. A key highlight of the event was an exhibition of ancient weapons, with volunteers giving insights into the historical significance of dand-patta, bhala, vita, and bagh nakh – armaments used in Mardani Khel – bringing alive its rich heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Komal Mehra, Head of Sports Initiatives & Associations at Usha International said, “Over the years, Mardani Khel has experienced a promising revival through collective efforts at the grassroots level, with Talimi (training centers) emerging across Maharashtra—signalling the growing impact of these initiatives. This traditional martial art demands exceptional physical fitness and conditioning, making it a holistic discipline that promotes resilience and well-being. Supporting traditional sports like Mardani Khel aligns perfectly with Usha’s mission of encouraging active living, fostering well-being, and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.”
Mardani Khel is a traditional martial art that originated in the Deccan region over 1500 years ago which gained prominence under Chhatrapati Shivaji during the Maratha regime, where it played a pivotal role in regional defense strategies. Once a vital aspect of Maratha military strategy, it continues to hold significant cultural importance and is taught at training centres in Pune, Kolhapur, and Mumbai.
Usha International’s support for Mardani Khel is part of its broader commitment to promoting sports across India. The brand has also been a resolute supporter of a diverse range of inclusive sports and initiatives across the country. These include collaborations with organizations like the Mumbai Indians, as well as support for sports such as Ultimate Flying Disc, Football, Golf, and cricket for differently abled athletes.
Usha also champions sports tailored for the visually impaired – such as athletics, kabaddi, judo, and powerlifting – and is at the forefront of reviving traditional Indian sports like Mallakhamb, Siat Khnam, Chhinj, Saz-Loung, Dah Fang, Thang-Ta, Turai Kar, Kalaripayattu, Satoliya, Silambam, Yoga, and Gatka – exemplifying its commitment to encouraging inclusivity in sports.
