When you think of an excise officer, you might imagine someone buried under paperwork or leading raids on illicit trade. But Manish Kumar breaks that stereotype literally and figuratively. A respected officer by profession and a world champion armwrestler by passion, Manish Kumar is proof that discipline, strength, and dedication can forge greatness in both arenas.
This August 5, Manish is set to storm the table once again as he competes in Season 2 of the Pro Panja League, airing live on Sony Sports Network. He will be competing for the Baroda Badshahs franchise. With muscles forged through years of intense training and a mind sharpened by public service, he stands as a true symbol of strength with purpose.
A Dual Life: Officer by Day, Champion by Grit
Gwalior’s Manish Kumar has always lived a life of discipline. His role as an excise officer demands precision, resilience, and a strong moral compass. But what sets him apart is how he balances his demanding government job with the rigorous demands of elite-level armwrestling.
He has represented India internationally and brought home the prestigious title of World Champion in armwrestling, an achievement that places him in a rare league of athletes who have mastered both mind and muscle.
Exclusive Interview with Manish Kumar
Q: Manish, you’ve already achieved so much in both your career and in sports. What does Pro Panja League Season 2 mean to you?
Manish Kumar: Pro Panja League is special. It’s not just a competition; it’s a movement that is putting Indian armwrestling on the map. Season 2 is bigger, better, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. It’s a platform that gives athletes like me recognition and connects us with fans across the country.
Q: How do you manage to juggle your duties as an excise officer with your armwrestling training?
Manish Kumar: It’s not easy, but where there is passion, there’s a way. My day starts early, and I’ve developed a strict schedule. I train before work, and sometimes even after. My job demands mental discipline, and my training demands physical endurance. In a way, both complement each other.
Q: You’ve already won international titles. What keeps you motivated to compete at the national level in Pro Panja League?
Manish Kumar: The love for the sport. And the desire to see Indian armwrestling reach the global stage. PPL is doing something no one else has done in India. It’s not just about me, it’s about inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Q: What advice would you give young Indians who want to pursue sports while maintaining a career?
Manish Kumar: Don’t choose but balance. With the right mindset, time management, and dedication, you can do both. Sports give you discipline, energy, and confidence, all of which make you better at whatever else you do.
Ready to Take the Table
As Manish gears up for the challenge, fans across India are eager to see the excise officer with a world-class arm flex his might on national television. With his iron will and explosive technique, he’s expected to be one of the biggest draws of Pro Panja League Season 2.
Tune in from August 5, only on Sony Sports Network, to witness Manish Kumar and India’s finest armwrestlers battle for glory, pride, and power.
