It takes a village: How Manisha Bhanwala rose from Siwaha to top of the world

Manisha Bhanwala has become India's first-ever woman world champion in wrestling following her historic victory in Astana, Kazakhstan. Hailing from the small village of Siwaha in Haryana's Jind district, Bhanwala's triumph has transformed her family's home into a major landmark, drawing celebrations and visits from relatives, neighbors, and journalists across the region.

Bhanwala began training around 2008 after her late father, Suresh, initially enrolled her in kabaddi before she transitioned to wrestling. Supported by her mother Meena Devi and elder brother Rinku, Bhanwala overcame family hardships, including her father's passing in 2022, while honoring his memory with a specially designed jersey during her championship campaign.