In the high-octane world of arm wrestling, where raw strength meets unyielding determination, Suraj Salhotra stands out as a formidable force. A mechanic by trade and an arm wrestler by passion, Suraj is gearing up to compete in the second season of the Pro Panja League (PPL), set to kick off on August 5, 2025, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. His journey from fixing engines to pinning opponents on the Panja table is a testament to grit, resilience, and the growing popularity of arm wrestling in India. He competed in the Kochi KD’s franchise which won the Season 1 title.
From Wrenches to Wristlocks: Suraj’s Rise in Arm Wrestling
Suraj Salhotra, hailing from India, embodies the spirit of the Pro Panja League’s ethos: celebrating athletes from diverse walks of life. By day, he’s a skilled mechanic, working with tools and machinery to keep vehicles running smoothly. By night, he transforms into a powerhouse arm wrestler, competing in one of India’s most physically demanding sports. His dual life reflects the league’s appeal, as co-founder Parvin Dabas noted, “Our athletes are literally sons and daughters of our soil. Somebody is a government servant, a gym trainer, somebody is a mechanic.”
Suraj’s arm wrestling journey gained traction in the Pro Panja League’s early events. He competed in the 2022 PPL Ranking Tournament in Gwalior, facing off against teammates and showcasing his prowess in the 70kg weight category as part of the Kochi KD’s, the championship-winning team of PPL’s inaugural season. Videos from the league highlight his intensity, with one clip capturing him battling teammate Shiv Kaushik in a gripping showdown. His participation in these high-stakes matches has earned him recognition among fans and peers alike.
The Pro Panja League, launched in 2020 by Bollywood actors Parvin Dabas and Preeti Jhangiani, has catapulted arm wrestling into the mainstream, drawing 32 million unique viewers in its first season. Season 2, set to air daily for two hours on Sony Sports Ten 3 (SD and HD), promises even more electrifying battles, with Suraj among the 180 athletes competing across six teams in men’s, women’s, and specially-abled categories.Suraj, you’re a mechanic by profession and an arm wrestler in the Pro Panja League. How do you balance these two demanding roles?
Suraj Salhotra: It’s not easy, but it’s all about discipline. Working as a mechanic keeps my hands strong, turning wrenches and handling heavy tools is like a workout in itself. After a long day at the garage, I head to the gym to train for arm wrestling. It’s tough, but I love the challenge. Arm wrestling gives me a purpose beyond my daily job, it’s a way to push my limits and inspire others.
You competed in the 2022 Ranking Tournament in Gwalior and were part of the Kochi KD’s in Season 1. What was that experience like?
Suraj Salhotra: Gwalior was incredible, the crowd’s energy was unreal! Facing my teammate in the ranking tournament was intense; it’s like fighting family, you know? Being part of Kochi KD’s in Season 1 was a dream. We won the championship, and that feeling of lifting the trophy with my team is something I’ll never forget. It showed me how big this sport can get in India.
Season 2 is starting August 5 in Gwalior, airing on Sony Sports Network. How are you preparing for it?
Suraj Salhotra: I’ve leveled up my training since Season 1. I’m focusing on grip strength, wrist endurance, and explosive power. I train with heavier weights and practice specific arm-wrestling techniques like top-roll and hook. My coach is pushing me to refine my strategy, arm wrestling isn’t just strength, it’s about outsmarting your opponent. I’m also watching footage from Season 1 to study my rivals. Gwalior’s fans are passionate, so I’m ready to give them a show.
Q) The Pro Panja League has grown massively, with 32 million viewers last season. How does it feel to be part of this movement?
Suraj Salhotra: It’s unreal. Growing up, arm wrestling was something we did for fun in the neighborhood. Now, to see it on Sony Sports Network with millions watching, it’s a game-changer. I feel proud to represent small-town India, showing kids like me that you can be a mechanic or anything else and still chase big dreams.
Pro Panja is making arm wrestling a household name, and I’m honored to be part of it.
Interviewer: Any message for your fans or aspiring arm wrestlers out there?
Suraj Salhotra: To my fans, thank you for the love, it fuels me to keep going. To anyone wanting to try arm wrestling, just start. You don’t need fancy equipment, just a strong will and consistent effort. Come to Gwalior, watch us live, or tune into Sony Sports Network from August 5. We’re bringing the heat
