Google Doodle honored the extraordinary life of Hamida Banu, acknowledged as India’s first professional female wrestler, by showcasing a doodle on its home page on May 4. Originating from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Banu’s narrative is a testament to bravery, perseverance, and shattering norms in a sport dominated by men.
Banu, often hailed as the “Amazon of Aligarh,” was born into a wrestling family in the early 1900s. Raised amidst wrestlers, she honed her skills and defied societal norms by opting for a career in professional wrestling during an era when women’s participation in sports was frowned upon.
Her determination reaped rich rewards. Over her career in the 1940s and 1950s, Banu accumulated 300 victories. She triumphed over renowned wrestlers, including the Patiala champion and Chhote Gama Pahalwan, showcasing her exceptional talent. Her victories extended beyond national fame, defeating international competitors like the Russian wrestler Vera Chistilin, thus earning global recognition.
