As the excitement builds for the highly anticipated Season 2 of the Pro Panja League, all eyes are drawn to an extraordinary newcomer: Asha Kumar. This remarkable schoolteacher from Gwalior is breaking barriers both in her classroom and on the armwrestling table. Not only is she an athlete in her own right, but she is also the wife of the legendary para-armwrestler Manish Kumar. Asha is ready to make her mark in India’s vibrant armwrestling scene.
The upcoming season of the Pro Panja League, India’s premier professional armwrestling league, will kick off live on Sony Sports Network from August 5. Asha Kumar’s participation is already generating excitement among fans and competitors alike, as she competes for the Baroda Badshahs franchise. In her debut Season 1, Asha secured a victory against Kirtika Bamel from Kiraak Hyderabad and is eager to continue her winning streak in Season 2.
Known for her calm demeanor as a teacher and fierce determination in competition, Asha embodies the qualities of discipline, resilience, and passion—traits that have only strengthened through her partnership with her husband, Manish, a celebrated international para-armwrestler.
Q: Asha ji, congratulations on being selected for Season 2 of Pro Panja League! How are you feeling?
Asha Kumar: Thank you! It feels surreal. I never imagined that my passion would lead me to such a significant platform. I’m incredibly proud and grateful for this opportunity.
Q: As a teacher in Gwalior, how do you balance teaching with rigorous armwrestling training?
Asha: Teaching is my first love. I enjoy working with students and shaping their futures. Armwrestling, however, is my outlet, my second passion. I train early in the mornings and again in the evenings. My students and colleagues have been incredibly supportive, cheering me on and even watching my practice videos!
Q: Your husband, Manish Kumar, is a legendary figure in the para-armwrestling community. How has he influenced your journey?
Asha: Immensely. Watching Manish train and compete, never giving up despite challenges, has been life-changing for me. He’s not just my husband; he’s my inspiration. He believed in my potential in armwrestling and started training me at home.
Q: What mindset are you bringing into Season 2 of the Pro Panja League?
Asha: I approach this as both a learner and a competitor. I know the league features some of the best talent in the country, but I also trust in my training. I want to represent not only myself but every woman who balances multiple roles yet dares to pursue her dreams.
Q: What advice would you give to other women interested in combat sports?
Asha: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. If you have the passion, start wherever you are. Women possess both mental and physical strength to excel in any sport. It’s never too late to begin!
As Asha Kumar prepares to face off against some of India’s strongest competitors, her story serves as a powerful reminder that passion knows no boundaries—be it profession, gender, or age. She exemplifies the growing movement of women in strength sports, redefining what it means to be powerful.
Don’t miss Asha Kumar and the elite armwrestlers live from August 5 on Sony Sports Network, as Pro Panja League Season 2 unfolds with unmatched intensity and spirit.
