Aamir Khan invited to desi wrestling arena in Kolhapur

It’s not for nothing that Aamir Khan is called Mr Perfectionist. The star went the whole hog to look like the quintessential Haryanvi wrestler in his next, ‘Dangal’, gaining weight and then getting back in ship shape.

Aamir’s dedication has not only left fans impressed, but the wrestling community too. Veteran wrestler Rustam-e-Hind Dadu Chaugle, who heads Motibagh Akhara in Kolhapur, one of the oldest akharas in the country, will host the Aamir this Monday. The invitation letter reads, “We are touched by the idea of getting kushti to mainstream through the movie and inspiring the young generation to indulge in the sport. We respect Aamir and want to honour him.”

Dadu’s son Vinod Chough-le, also a pehlwaan, said, “The trailer of Dangal is really impressive. My father knows Mahavir Phogat [wrestling coach who Aamir will play on screen] and we have always been inspired by his work and admire him. Aamir has done a brilliant job and looks like an actual wrestler in the film.”

He adds that preparations to felicitate the actor are underway. “It is gracious of him to accept our invitation. Our pehlwaans are going to showcase their skills before him and we would love it if he joins us for a fun round of kushti.
We also plan to challenge him to a milk drinking competition. So, we hope he is ready to face the test.”

The actor’s spokesperson says, “It is a privilege for Aamir to be honoured by one of the most prestigious and traditional akharas of India.”