Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) [India], August 18, 2025: One of India’s most decorated para-arm wrestlers, Verma Harish Kumar has returned to the spotlight with Sher-e-Ludhiana in Season 2 of the Pro Panja League. Emerging victorious in both his matches till now, he stands true to his name, which is synonymous with “the one who is like a lion”.
As a boy from Gujarat, Harish began his journey at the mere age of 17 in the early 2000s, an era when arm wrestling was barely recognized in Indian sports circles. With no formal coach or system to rely on, he turned to the internet for guidance and jokingly refers to “Google and hard work” as his earliest mentors. Backed by unwavering support from his family and community, Harish nurtured a dream that has now placed him on the global stage.
From winning a silver and gold medal at his debut World Championship in 2015 (COC Para Category) to becoming the World and Asian Champion, Harish Kumar has never looked back. He has since bagged 8 National Championships. Currently employed at the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, he stands tall as one of the most respected para-athletes in the country and undoubtedly the pride of Sher-e-Ludhiana.
Speaking about his experience, Harish shared how being shortlisted for the team has been a turning point, not just in his career, but for many athletes across India. He mentions, “Sher E Ludhiana has given us a national platform to showcase our strengths, our technique, and most importantly, our stories. We are grateful to the owners for uplifting us with this opportunity.” He also credited the head coach of Sher-e-Ludhiana Yerkin Alimzhanov, a globally respected figure in the arm wrestling circuit who leads the legendary Kazakhstan arm wrestling team. Learning under him has elevated the team’s approach to the sport.
The head coach himself praised Harish’s unique style and determination, saying, “Harish has world-class technique and one of the most disciplined mindsets I’ve seen. He’s a role model not only in India but on the international stage. Sher-e-Ludhiana is honored to have him.”
Praveen Dabas, Founder of the Pro Panja League, has been instrumental in creating this robust platform. Harish expressed gratitude for the opportunity: “What Praveen sir has done is remarkable. He’s built a league where athletes like me are seen, heard, and celebrated. My goal is simple: to better my game, give it everything I’ve got, and bring pride to my team.”
Looking ahead, Harish is excited about what the future holds. “I believe the Pro Panja League is going to go international soon and when it does, it will do wonders for the sport and athletes worldwide. Sher-e-Ludhiana has become more than a team; it’s a family. And this family is determined to push each other to greatness and make our fans proud.”
Not defined by his disability but driven by his unwavering determination, he has carved a path of excellence. His journey as a para athlete is not one of limitation, but of triumph. A real testament of how passion and perseverance can overcome any barrier.
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