Pune: Usha International collaborated with Tulja Bhavani Mardani Khel Prashikshan va Sanskrutik Seva Sanstha, Pimpri, to host the Usha Mardani Khel State-Level Competition at Swatantryaveer Savarkar Bhavan, Nigdi.

The event, featuring over 125 participants, celebrated the traditional martial art of Mardani Khel, a significant part of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.

The competition, inaugurated by Subhash Dagadkhair, President’s Medal awardee for Meritorious Service, and Nitin Dada Lokhande, saw participants dressed in traditional Nauvari sarees and mandchol tunics, displaying exceptional skills in offensive and defensive combat.

An exhibition of ancient weapons, including dand-patta and wagh nakh, added depth to the event by exploring the art's historical significance.

Komal Mehra, Head of Sports Initiatives & Associations at Usha International said, “Over the years, Mardani Khel has experienced a promising revival through collective efforts at the grassroots level, with Talimi (training centers) emerging across Maharashtra—signalling the growing impact of these initiatives.

This traditional martial art demands exceptional physical fitness and conditioning, making it a holistic discipline that promotes resilience and well-being.”

Mardani Khel is a traditional martial art that originated in the Deccan region over 1500 years ago which gained prominence under Chhatrapati Shivaji during the Maratha regime, where it played a pivotal role in regional defense strategies.

Once a vital aspect of Maratha military strategy, it continues to hold significant cultural importance and is taught at training centres in Pune, Kolhapur, and Mumbai.