Who is India’s 1st Female Sumo Wrestler?

When you think of a sumo wrestler, they are usually Japanese men.

The traditional sport involves two wrestlers aiming to push each other out of a circular ring or force the other to touch the ground.

It is gradually gaining interest from women and in India, Hetal Dave is the country’s first and only female sumo wrestler.

From her early martial arts training to becoming a sumo wrestling trailblazer, Hetal Dave shows that the sport is not just a physical challenge but a career opportunity.

We look at her early years, the challenges she faced and how Sumo wrestling is a viable sport for women.

Early Beginnings

Based in Mumbai, Hetal Dave’s martial arts journey began with judo when she was five.

However, her path was far from normal for women in India.

She said: “I’ve always been a sports enthusiast, inspired by Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan.

“I used to go to the cinema hall to watch movies with my parents as, at that time, TV was not a craze.”

Hetal regularly practised with her brother at Oval Maidan, a space that eventually became her training ground.

For some, such a venture would be opposed by relatives but Hetal’s family were very supportive.

She explained: “I never experienced criticism from my family. My father, my mother, and even my grandparents supported my decisions.”

Their support inspired Hetal to challenge stereotypes and become a sumo wrestler.

Overcoming Challenges

Naturally, Hetal Dave experienced challenges, especially financial ones.

But she has always found strength in her motto:

“Why can’t I do it? I want to do it, and I want to do it first.”

This drove her success in the sumo ring and also shaped her personal growth. Through sumo wrestling, she gained the confidence that had once eluded her.

Hetal reflected: “It boosted my confidence, especially since I’ve always been an introvert. Sumo wrestling got me travelling at a very young age.”

Her involvement in the sport transcended national borders, as she competed in prestigious international tournaments. She made an impact at the World Championships, finishing in the top eight during her very first competition.

Hetal also took part in the World Games, competing in countries like Estonia, Finland, and Poland.

The sumo wrestler also represented India in the Asian Championships in China and the World Games in Chinese Taipei, where she earned an impressive fifth-place finish.

Her story illustrates how sports can be a powerful force for women, pushing them beyond perceived limitations and unlocking their inner strength.

For Hetal, her sumo wrestling journey has always been about more than just winning – it’s about breaking free from societal expectations and showing what women are truly capable of.

The Evolution of Women in Sumo Wrestling

While there are more women in sumo wrestling, Hetal admitted that there is still a lack of seriousness.

She stated: “Women are participating, but they’re not taking it as seriously as I did. I wanted people to know me for my work.”

Hetal has urged female sumo wrestlers to see the sport as more than just a hobby or travel opportunity.

Although sumo wrestling is fairly niche in India, there is a lot of potential for those who are serious about it.

Hetal explained:

“I wanted people to know me for my work.”

Challenges do remain but Hetal believes that women can build successful careers in the sport with the right mindset and determination.

Her message to aspiring athletes is straightforward: approach the sport with seriousness, work hard, and strive to be recognised for your talent and commitment.

While sumo wrestling may not enjoy the popularity of cricket or football in India, it holds just as much potential as a rewarding career path for women.

Inspiring Women

Hetal Dave retired from competition in 2012 and walked away from coaching in 2018.

However, she still loves the sport and if given the chance, she would return to coaching and help the next generation of sumo wrestlers in India.

Hetal wants to create more opportunities for women in sumo wrestling and provide them with the support she wishes she had.

During her career and after retirement, Hetal received a lack of government support and this is attributed to India’s low profile of sumo wrestling compared to other sports like cricket.

The absence of representation in national games or the Olympics has further marginalised the sport, leaving athletes like Hetal to navigate their careers with limited resources.

Hetal Dave’s trailblazing journey as India’s first female sumo wrestler serves as a powerful example to women everywhere.

Her story goes beyond breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport; it’s a testament to the fact that with the right support, determination, and self-belief, women can thrive in any field they choose.

Hetal’s story was even told in the 2024 film Sumo Didi.

Her message is simple but profound – sports can be a transformative platform for women, enabling them to challenge stereotypes, build confidence, and leave a lasting impact.

As more women explore sumo wrestling and other unconventional sports, Hetal’s journey stands as a source of inspiration.

With perseverance, they can not only compete but also create successful careers, lighting the path for future generations of female athletes to follow.