New Delhi, September 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian wrestler Manisha Bhanwala is looking forward to making her Asian Games debut at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, determined to put her preparation and hard work into action after moving down from the 62kg to the 57kg category.
Manisha has represented India at international competitions before, but the Asian Games will mark a new milestone in her career. Her shift to the 57kg category has also required her to work extensively on her strength, technique and mindset.
“I used to play more from the right, but now I have started playing from the left as well. I am trying to work on both stances because I want to be comfortable playing from either side. I am working on my power and technique, but the main thing is also changing my mindset and adapting to the new category,” Manisha said.
The wrestler said representing India at the Asian Games carries a special significance and that her immediate focus is on delivering her best performance.
“I have been representing India for a while, but the Asian Games are special for India. Representing India is a dream for every athlete, so I am a little excited because this is my first Asian Games. My target is just to give my best. Mentally, I am prepared; I am just keeping the pace on things and preparing myself,” she added.
Manisha started wrestling in 2013 after her father introduced her to the sport to help her improve her fitness. What began as a fitness exercise gradually developed into a serious sporting pursuit.
She admitted that the early years were accompanied by pressure and self-doubt, but said she has grown considerably stronger mentally, particularly since 2021.
“When I started, I did feel pressure, and I had doubts. But from 2021 onwards, I have become stronger mentally. Even when I get injured and cannot compete, I do have doubts, but I keep practising and keep doing it. Shiddat se kaam karo and dil se chaho toh kaise nahi hoga,” Manisha said.
She also credited the Indian wrestling team’s training camps for helping her prepare for the demanding competition. Japanese coach Kosei Akaishi at the IIS has also provided technical inputs as she adjusts to the new weight category.
“I have been working a lot on my technique, especially because I am playing from both stances now. Coach Akaishi has also been helping us and teaching us a lot. The Indian team camps are very useful because we all learn from each other, and when we train together, it brings out the best in us,” Manisha said.
The wrestler also expressed gratitude for the support she has received at the IIS, saying the institute has taken care of her requirements ranging from training to supplements.
“I have been with IIS for quite a while, and everyone has really supported me. Whatever I have needed has been taken care of, from supplements to training. They have helped me in every aspect, and that support has been very important to me,” she added.
With the Asian Games challenge ahead, Manisha said she is prepared to embrace the difficulty and rely on her work ethic.
“Mushkil toh bohot hota hai, but mehnat karne se sab ho jaata hai. Agar itna aasaan hota toh sab kar lete,” she concluded.
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