From Mat to Mandate: The Andolanjeevi Wrestler, Vinesh Phogat To Wrestle Cousin Babita

Let’s not kid ourselves; nobody is surprised. The moment Vinesh began making headlines for more than just her on-mat victories, the writing was on the wall. Did we really think that a few kilos would keep her down forever? No, she was just biding her time, building her narrative—the indomitable spirit of a fighter who just so happens to now want to “serve the people.” How noble.

Vinesh Phogat to Wrestle Babita

And why wouldn’t she? After years of grappling with opponents on the mat, why not grapple with political foes instead? Especially when those foes are, quite conveniently, her own family members. Yes, that’s right. In the grand Indian tradition of keeping politics all in the family, Vinesh is reportedly eyeing a showdown against none other than her cousin, Babita Phogat. The Phogat family drama, it seems, isn’t confined to sports anymore. Haryana’s got itself a new wrestling arena, and this one comes with election booths.

Remember when Vinesh declared she’d never enter politics? Ah, the sweet naivety. A statement like that is almost a prerequisite for a career in politics. “I’m here for the people,” she’ll likely say, even as she steps over them on her way to the Assembly. Of course, the people love a good redemption story, and what better redemption than going from an Olympic disappointment to the possible Chief Minister of Haryana?

Somewhere between fighting for medals and fighting for women’s rights, it seems Vinesh discovered that the real battle is won in the ballot box. We can already picture the campaign slogans—”From Mat to Mandate,” “A Vote for Vinesh is a Victory for All,” or perhaps, “Wrestling Corruption, One Vote at a Time.” And if you thought her tears at the airport were moving, just wait until the election speeches start rolling out. Those tears are going to make for some powerful political ads.

So here we are, on the brink of witnessing Vinesh Phogat’s most ambitious move yet. The andolanjeevi wrestler is about to become the intentional politician, and who can blame her? After all, when the gold medal eludes you, a seat in the Haryana Assembly is the next best thing.