Who Is Anita Sheoran? Gold Medallist Wrestler Seeks WFI Presidency

Among the four candidates competing for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) presidency, Anita Sheoran is the only woman contender. She also stands out as a witness in the alleged harassment case against Brij Bhushan.

Notably, Sheoran is the only female competitor seeking to succeed Brij Bhushan in the position. Here are four facts about the former champion.

Leading Woman In Male-Dominated Game

Sheoran, who won a gold medal at the 2010 New Delhi Commonwealth Games, filed her candidacy on the last day of nominations for the August 12 elections. If elected, she would make history as the first woman to head an ancient Indian sport with roots in all-male akhadas. Despite Indian women's notable achievements in the sport at the international level, decision-making positions have historically been dominated by men.

First Commonwealth Games Medal

In the 67 kg freestyle category of the 2005 Commonwealth Wrestling Championships, Sheoran secured a bronze medal. Continuing her success, she also won a bronze medal at the 2008 Asian Wrestling Championships, competing in the 59 kg freestyle event. Later that year, she took part in the World Wrestling Championships, where she faced a defeat in the first round against Agata Pietrzyk, who eventually went on to win the bronze medal.

Service With Haryana Police 

Born in the Dhani Mahu village, located in Haryana's Bhiwani district, to Dilip Singh Sheoran and Santosh Devi. Currently, she works as an inspector in the Haryana Police.

Motherhood

Following the birth of her son, Aryaveer, Sheoran underwent a huge transformation and her experience of motherhood only helped her accelerate her career. She made an impressive return a year after giving birth winning another gold medal at the 2018 nationals.

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