Harnessing techniques that have been used to train warriors for thousands of years, kusti is a form of traditional Indian wrestling that dates back to the 16th century. It was once considered to be the pursuit of heroes, and at the peak of its popularity at the beginning of last century, successful fighters were hailed as living legends. Now kusti is only practised in a handful of remote towns and villages across the country, and its future is uncertain. Kolhapur, a city in the southwest corner of Maharashtra, is one place where the sport continues to thrive. Photographer Reuben Steains recently visited an garadi (wrestling gymnasium) in Kolhapur to capture these revered wrestlers in action



September 2007