Picture a 12-year-old boy, brimming with dreams, living in an army hostel, and waking up each day to the sounds of clanging weights and shouting coaches. This was the life of Manoj Dhankhar, a young wrestling enthusiast who would eventually become a champion both on the mat and off. As he balanced his studies with rigorous evening training sessions at the Sports Authority of India, little did he know that these early struggles would lay the foundation for a remarkable career in sports and beyond.
Manoj’s journey began in class 8, where he discovered his passion for wrestling. With a fierce determination, he seized every opportunity to train, winning his first gold medal at the sub-junior national level in 2003. But this was just the beginning. Over the next decade, Dhankhar would go on to collect medals like trophies, with 11 to 12 golds in senior national competitions, including a treasure trove of accolades such as the prestigious BHIM award from the Haryana Government.
Wrestling became not just a sport for him, but a way of life, and it shaped the very core of his identity. His tenacity and commitment led him to win 4 gold and 1 silver medal in the Commonwealth Games, along with a bronze at the Asian Games. But what sets Dhankhar apart isn’t just his impressive medal tally; it’s his journey from the wrestling mat to the halls of bureaucracy, where he now serves as an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer while continuing to shape the future of Indian wrestling as a coach. This is the story of a man who dared to dream big and proved that with determination, anything is possible.
He spoke exclusively with Indian Masterminds and shared his journey.
A TRANSITION INTO COACHING
In 2018, Dhankhar transitioned from active competition to coaching, where he continued to contribute to Indian wrestling. His dedication was recognized when he was honored with the prestigious Dhyanchand Award in 2019 by the then-President, Ram Nath Kovind. His role evolved further in 2021 when he was inducted as the chief coach for Greco-Roman wrestling by the Wrestling Federation of India.
Reflecting on his journey, Dhankhar states, “Every medal I’ve won represents years of hard work and sacrifice. Wrestling is not just a sport; it has shaped my identity and instilled resilience in me.”
MAKING HISTORY AT THE ASIAN GAMES
Dhankhar’s coaching skills shone brightly at the 2023 Asian Games, where he guided the Indian team to unprecedented success. Sunil Kumar, a protégé of Dhankhar, won the first gold medal for India in Greco-Roman wrestling in 13 years in the 87 kg category.
“Bringing Greco-Roman wrestling to the forefront of Indian sports, just like freestyle wrestling, has been my goal. This win is a proof of our collective effort and determination,” Dhankhar remarked, beaming with pride.
His aspirations for the Olympics in 2016 were thwarted by a knee injury that required surgery, but Dhankhar’s spirit remained unbroken. “The Olympics were a dream, and although I missed that opportunity, I didn’t let it define me. I returned to practice with the same enthusiasm and commitment,” he said.
A DUAL CAREER IN THE IRS
In 2013, Dhankhar joined the Income Tax department as an inspector, eventually clearing the Income Tax Officer (ITO) exam in 2022. His remarkable achievements as a coach led to an out-of-turn promotion, and he was appointed as an IRS officer in 2023, currently serving as the Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax.
Balancing the demands of coaching and his responsibilities as an IRS officer is no small feat. Dhankhar credits his sports background for his ability to manage both roles effectively. “Nothing is impossible for a sportsman. The mental and physical strength gained from sports equips us to tackle challenges head-on. In comparison, the work of an IRS is easier than the discipline required in sports,” he asserted.
THE POWER OF SPORTS
Dhankhar advocates for the importance of sports in education, emphasizing its role in developing character and resilience. “No number of books or formal education can provide the practical experiences and life lessons that sports offer. It teaches patience, boosts mental health, and fosters discipline,” he explained passionately.
Recognizing the impact of sports, he urges parents to encourage their children to engage in physical activities. “Sports can be a powerful antidote to the pressures of life, especially for young minds. It can help prevent depression and promote a healthy lifestyle,” he advised.
Recognition and Gratitude
His contributions were recently acknowledged by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who presented him with an award for his dual achievements in IRS and wrestling. “Receiving recognition from such a high authority not only honors me but also inspires respect within the department,” he noted. Their conversation revealed her surprise and admiration upon learning about his sports background, further emphasizing the value of cross-disciplinary achievements.
In his daily routine, Dhankhar maintains physical activity by standing while working, ensuring his body stays agile and fit despite the demands of office work. “Staying active is crucial. It helps me manage my time better and keeps my energy levels high throughout the day,” he explained.
Manoj Dhankhar embodies strength, proving that the lessons learned in the wrestling arena can translate into success in the bureaucratic world. His journey inspires countless aspiring athletes and professionals alike, highlighting that with dedication, anything is achievable. As he aptly puts it, “Success is not just about winning; it’s about the journey and the resilience to keep moving forward, no matter the odds.”
