Who Was Dara Singh?

Dara Singh: The Immortal Wrestler and Actor

Dara Singh was more than just a wrestler; he was a national icon who symbolized strength, resilience, and versatility. From dominating the wrestling ring to leaving a mark in Indian cinema, he carved a legacy that continues to inspire generations. This article delves into the life, achievements, and contributions of Dara Singh, a man who transcended sports and entertainment to become a household name in India.

Early Life and Background

Dara Singh was born on November 19, 1928, in the village of Dharmuchak, Amritsar, Punjab. His birth name was Dara Singh Randhawa. Coming from a humble farming family, his early life was rooted in the agrarian traditions of Punjab. Despite the challenges of rural life, he possessed an innate physical strength, which was evident from a young age.

As a child, Dara Singh was fascinated by traditional Indian wrestling, known as Pehlwani. Inspired by the legendary wrestlers of Punjab, he started training in akhadas (wrestling arenas) at an early age. His robust physique and disciplined lifestyle helped him build a strong foundation for professional wrestling.

Wrestling Career: The Rise of a Champion

Dara Singh’s wrestling career began in the traditional Indian style of Kushti, where he quickly gained fame for his formidable strength and unbeatable techniques. Recognizing his potential, he moved beyond the local akhadas and entered the professional wrestling scene.

Success in India

In India, he won multiple wrestling championships and became a well-known name in the country. He was famous for his wrestling matches in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, where thousands gathered to watch him fight.

International Wrestling Career

Dara Singh’s wrestling prowess was not limited to India. In the 1940s and 1950s, he traveled abroad to take part in international competitions, defeating some of the greatest wrestlers in the world. He competed in countries such as Canada, the USA, Australia, and the UK, where he earned widespread recognition.

One of his most celebrated victories came in 1959 when he defeated the Canadian wrestling champion George Gordienko. This victory established him as a dominant figure in global wrestling.

Defeating King Kong and Becoming Rustam-e-Hind

Perhaps one of the most iconic moments of his wrestling career was his match against King Kong, an Australian wrestler weighing over 200 kg. Despite the massive weight difference, Dara Singh managed to overpower him, proving his incredible strength and strategic skills.

In 1968, he was officially crowned Rustam-e-Hind (Champion of India), a title that solidified his position as the undisputed wrestling champion of India. His wrestling career spanned more than two decades, and he remained undefeated in over 500 fights, a record that is still revered today.

Transition to Bollywood

Dara Singh’s wrestling fame made him a perfect fit for Bollywood, where his powerful physique and heroic image attracted filmmakers. His acting career started in the 1950s, and he gradually became a leading action star in the Indian film industry.

Early Films

Dara Singh’s debut film was Sangdil (1952), but he gained significant recognition with King Kong (1962) and Faulad (1963). These films showcased his wrestling skills and established him as an action hero.

Becoming a Leading Hero

His breakthrough came with “Rustom-e-Baghdad” (1963), which was followed by a series of successful action films like:

• Rustom-E-Hind (1965)
• Sikandar E Azam (1965)
• Veer Bhimsen (1964)
• Lootera (1965)

These films capitalized on his tough, invincible image, and he became the go-to actor for warrior and mythological roles.

The Role of Hanuman in Ramayan

One of the most unforgettable roles of Dara Singh was as Hanuman in Ramanand Sagar’s TV series Ramayan (1987-1988). His portrayal of the mighty Vanara warrior was so impactful that even today, audiences associate him with the role of Hanuman. His performance was full of devotion, strength, and charisma, making him a beloved figure among all age groups.

Political Career

After an illustrious career in wrestling and cinema, Dara Singh entered politics. In 2003, he was nominated as a Rajya Sabha MP (Member of Parliament) by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During his tenure, he actively participated in debates and worked for the upliftment of rural sports in India.

Legacy and Influence

Dara Singh’s impact goes beyond wrestling and films. He remains an inspiration for young athletes, bodybuilders, and actors. His dedication to fitness, discipline, and hard work made him a role model for generations.

Fitness and Training

Even in his later years, Dara Singh maintained a disciplined fitness routine. He promoted traditional Indian workouts like Dand-Baithak (push-ups and squats), Gada (mace exercises), and diet consisting of milk, ghee, and almonds.

Honors and Recognition

• World Wrestling Championship (1968) – Became the World Champion
• Rustam-e-Hind Title (1968)
• Padma Shri (2012, Posthumous) – Recognizing his contribution to sports and cinema

Personal Life and Death

Dara Singh married twice and had six children, including Vindu Dara Singh, who also entered the entertainment industry. He was known for his humble and kind-hearted nature, always helping those in need.

On July 12, 2012, Dara Singh passed away at the age of 83 due to a cardiac arrest. His death was a huge loss to India, and he was mourned by fans, celebrities, and political leaders alike.

Conclusion

Dara Singh was a rare personality who excelled in multiple fields—wrestling, acting, and politics. His strength was legendary, his performances unforgettable, and his contributions immense. Even today, he is remembered as the undefeated wrestling champion, the immortal Hanuman of television, and a proud son of India who left behind a rich legacy.

His life teaches us the importance of hard work, determination, and humility. Dara Singh’s story will continue to inspire generations to come, proving that true strength lies not just in the body but in the spirit and dedication of a person.