The Bholu Brothers: Wrestling Titans of Pakistan

The Bholu Brothers, a remarkable family of Pakistani wrestlers of Kashmiri origin, have left an indelible mark on the sport of wrestling. They hail from The Great Gama wrestling family, a lineage with a rich history dating back to 1850. The family’s influence in the sport spans several generations, predating the independence of Pakistan.

Members of the Bholu Brothers:

– Bholu Pahalwan (Manzoor Hussain)

– Azam Pahalwan

– Aslam Pahalwan (Achcha)

– Akram Pahalwan

– Goga Pahalwan (Moazzam)

The Bholu Brothers were the sons of Imam Baksh Pahalwan, also known as Rustam-e-Hind, and nephews of the renowned Gama Pehlwan. They operated several wrestling gyms and trained under the Great Gama himself, maintaining a strong presence in the wrestling scene post-independence.

Early Days:

The Great Bholu’s Gym, known as Dar-ul-Sehat, located in Karachi, was a traditional wrestling arena. Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan, allocated this building to the Gama wrestling family for training. The Government of Pakistan, until Ayub Khan’s regime, provided a special grant to the family in recognition of their services to the sport.

During the golden era of wrestling in Pakistan, stadiums were packed, and the Bholu Brothers were celebrated figures in the wrestling community, especially in the East.

Training and Titles:

– Bholu Pahalwan became Rustam-e-Pakistan in 1949 and Rustam-e-Zaman (World Champion) in 1967.

– Aslam Pahalwan earned the title of Rustam-e-Punjab in 1951 and gained international fame by defeating several renowned wrestlers.

– Azam Pahalwan was known as Rustam-e-Hind and the Champion of Lahore and the Far East.

– Akram Pahalwan was given the name “Double Tiger” and achieved victories in various countries, including defeating Ugandan Champion Idi Amin.

– Goga Pahalwan was trained by the Great Gama and known for his quick reflexes and agile fighting style.

Notable Achievements:

– Bholu Pahalwan’s victories over Western wrestlers like Karl Pojello and George Zbisko.

– Aslam Pahalwan’s famous win against Empire Champion Bert Assirati.

– Azam Pahalwan’s flexibility and strength in defeating super heavyweights.

– Akram Pahalwan’s triumphs in East Africa and his fierce battles with top wrestlers worldwide.

– Goga Pahalwan’s renowned feuds with famous wrestlers like Tiger Jogindar and Billy Robinson.

The Bholu Brothers’ legacy continues to inspire future generations of wrestlers. Their dedication, skill, and passion for wrestling have cemented their place in history as some of the most distinguished figures in the sport.

Join us in celebrating the remarkable contributions of the Bholu Brothers to the world of wrestling!