10 unknown facts about Gama Pehlwan

Gama Pehlwan, also known as Ghulam Muhammad Baksh Butt, was a legendary wrestler from British India who became an icon in the world of wrestling. Born on May 22, 1878, in Amritsar, Punjab (now in Pakistan).

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. He dominated the wrestling scene during the early 20th century and achieved numerous accomplishments in his illustrious career.

While many people are familiar with his remarkable achievements, there are still some lesser-known facts about Gama Pehlwan that are worth exploring.

1. Gama Pehlwan was a prodigy from a young age: He showed remarkable physical prowess from a young age. At the tender age of 10, he defeated a fully grown bull in a wrestling match, which brought him early recognition as a prodigy in his village.
2. Had an impressive undefeated streak: He remained undefeated throughout his entire wrestling career, which spanned over five decades. He is said to have won over 5000 wrestling matches and never lost a single bout, earning him the title of “Rustam-e-Hind,” meaning the “Indian Hercules.”
3. Wrestling champion in multiple countries: He not only dominated the wrestling scene in India but also earned recognition as a wrestling champion in other countries. He defeated famous wrestlers from Europe, the Middle East, and other parts of the world, including well-known wrestlers like Stanislaus Zbyszko, Raheem Bakhsh Sultaniwala, and Jesse Peterson, among others.
4. Had an exceptional physical strength: Gama Pehlwan’s incredible physical strength was one of the key factors that contributed to his success. He was known for his unique training methods, which included carrying a yoke weighing over 1200 pounds on his shoulders and lifting heavy stones to build his strength and endurance.
5. Had a strict diet and lifestyle: He followed a strict diet and lifestyle to maintain his peak physical condition. He adhered to a simple and disciplined life, abstaining from smoking, drinking, and other vices. His diet consisted of milk, ghee (clarified butter), almonds, and fruits, which helped him maintain his stamina and energy levels.
6. He was a philanthropist: Despite his immense success and fame, Gama Pehlwan remained humble and committed to giving back to society. He used his wrestling earnings to support various charitable causes, including building schools, hospitals, and mosques in his village and other areas.
7. Multi-linguist: Gama Pehlwan was not only proficient in his native Punjabi language but also spoke several other languages, including Urdu, Hindi, English, Persian, and Arabic. This made him a popular figure among people from different regions and communities.
8. Was a freedom fighter: Gama Pehlwan was a vocal supporter of the Indian independence movement and actively participated in protests against British colonial rule. He used his popularity and influence to raise awareness about the plight of the Indian people and promote the cause of freedom.
9. Gama Pehlwan was a mentor to many wrestlers: He was not only a legendary wrestler himself but also served as a mentor to many aspiring wrestlers. He trained and groomed several wrestlers who went on to achieve great success in their careers, including famous wrestlers like Rahim Baksh Sultan. Gama Pehlwan was not only a legendary wrestler himself but also served as a mentor to many aspiring wrestlers. He trained and groomed several wrestlers who went on to achieve great success in their careers, including famous wrestlers like Rahim Baksh Sultaniwala and Imam Baksh Pahalwan, who followed in his footsteps and carried on his legacy.

10. Gama Pehlwan’s legacy continues to inspire: Even after his passing in 1960, Gama Pehlwan’s legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike. His remarkable achievements, unbeaten record, and philanthropic activities have earned him a revered status in the world of wrestling. He is remembered as a national hero in both India and Pakistan, and his name is synonymous with excellence in the sport of wrestling.

In conclusion, Gama Pehlwan’s life and career were filled with extraordinary achievements and lesser-known facts that highlight his unparalleled prowess and impact on the wrestling world. From his prodigious talent from a young age to his undefeated streak, exceptional physical strength, and philanthropic activities, Gama Pehlwan’s legacy continues to captivate and inspire generations of wrestlers and fans alike. He remains a legendary figure in the world of wrestling, known for his unparalleled skill, discipline, and contributions to society, making him a true icon in the history of the sport.