Biography:
Hetal Dave, India’s first and only professional female sumo wrestler, has made her mark in the world of sports through her determination and skill. Born and raised in Mumbai, Hetal has overcome numerous challenges to achieve success in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
From a young age, Hetal showed a passion for wrestling and judo. With the support of her father and brother, she pursued her interests and began her training in judo at the age of six. Hetal’s dedication to the sport led her to become a Judo trainer, imparting her knowledge and skills to students in different schools.
However, Hetal’s true calling was in sumo wrestling, a sport that had limited recognition in India. Facing a lack of opponents and training facilities, she had to practice with male players and her brother, Akshay. Determined to hone her skills, Hetal chose Oval Maidan in South Mumbai as her training ground, utilizing the natural terrain to prepare herself for upcoming challenges.
In 2008, Hetal participated in her first international championship in Estonia. Making her mark, she finished among the top eight globally and caught the attention of media outlets such as Newsweek, which included her in a list of 150 fearless women. Her success continued as she represented India in tournaments held in Poland, Finland, and Taiwan, showcasing her determination and skill in the ring.
Despite the absence of recognition for sumo wrestling in India, Hetal’s achievements have been remarkable. She represented India in the 2009 World Games held in Taiwan, where she stood fifth in the women’s middleweight category. Hetal’s participation in this event was significant as she was the only female participant from India, representing her country and sumo wrestling with pride.
Hetal’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, even in the absence of widespread recognition for sumo wrestling in India. Her name is recorded among the world’s 150 fearless women, a testament to her remarkable journey as a professional sumo wrestler. Through her determined spirit, Hetal has inspired countless individuals to overcome barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pursue their dreams.
Awards:
– Inclusion in the Limca Book of Records in 2008.