Meet Suraj Salhotra: Mechanic From Punjab Leaving No Stone Unturned To Be Fully Fit For Pro Panja League Season 2

Belonging to a humble background, Suraj Salhotra, a mechanic from Amritsar, Punjab, remains fully optimistic that their team will clinch the title from Pro Panja League 2. Time has arguably been the biggest constraint for Salhotra as far as preparations for the tournament go, but he is leaving no stone unturned in keeping himself in good stead to win the event.

Here are the excerpts from an exclusive interview with Suraj Salhotra, who will compete in the 60 KG category for Kochi KDs:

1) Can you tell us where you're from? Also, a little about your background, and most importantly, how did your passion for arm wrestling begin?

I live in Amritsar and started arm wrestling in 2007, when I was in school. I used to go to the gym, where I met a senior who coached me. He was an arm wrestling champion at the time, and I learned by watching him.

2) With your job as a mechanic, how do you manage to take out time to prepare for the Pro Panja League, especially considering the level of preparation required for this tournament?

It is very difficult to take time out from my work as a mechanic. I wake up around 5:30 or 6:00am in the morning, then go for a run and do a bit of gym training to maintain my fitness and diet. After the gym, the hustle begins as I have to go to work. I return home around 8:30 or 9:00 PM. I’m also married and have a child, so I have to manage a little bit around my schedule.

3) Have you participated any junior championships in the sport of arm wrestling?

I have participated in many events since I started arm wrestling. After learning slowly and steadily, I first won a gold medal at the district level, then at the state level, and then eventually played in the nationals. I have been a national champion since 2012–2013 and have won around 9 to 10 national medals. When I competed at the Nationals in Mathura in 2013, I secured a gold medal there. I’ve played in many tournaments across various places such as Delhi, Chhattisgarh, and Haryana. I have also participated in major events like the Sheru Classic and Sood Classic.

4) What are the improvements you are looking to bring from Season 1 to Season 2? 

In Season 1, I had some injuries during a few matches, but I’ve fully recovered now. I’ve trained hard to get back into good shape, and I will give my best performance in the upcoming Season 2.

5) Does anyone in your family have an interest or background in arm wrestling?

Yes, I have a younger brother who is also my student. His name is Sahil, and he recently participated in the Police Games in the US, where he secured two gold medals.

6) As a mechanic, can you tell us more about how your work contributes to your physical strength and supports your arm wrestling training?

Yes, I am a two-wheeler padding mechanic. My day starts at 9 AM. As a mechanic, I repair engines, fit pistons, open lugs, and perform other similar tasks. My skills have improved a lot over time. It’s a strenuous job that involves a lot of body movement. However, it benefits me, as I have strong hands with a good grip, which helps me in the sport.

7) We also read that you’ve received support from the local community, and your family has supported you just as much. Could you tell us a bit more about that?

My elder brother, younger brother, and wife all support me. I provide free training near my shop every Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM. A lot of people gather, and many come just to watch. Since the training happens by the roadside, I set up a bench outside. People passing by stop and ask what game we’re playing. Then we explain and educate them about the sport of arm wrestling. Some players even come from far-off places, as far as thirty kilometers away. Around 30 to 35 players train with me every Sunday.

8) If your team wins the Pro Panja League Season 2, what will you do with the prize money?

We will definitely win the Pro Panja League. With the prize money, I would like to build my own gym and train students in the sport of arm wrestling. I want to raise awareness about our sport and support anyone who chooses to pursue it.

Published on: Monday, July 28, 2025, 03:37 PM IST