Bajrang Punia, the Indian wrestler and Olympic medalist, has been through significant events recently:
- Bajrang Punia was handed a four-year ban in 2024 by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) for refusing to undergo a doping test during the national team selection trials. This ban means he cannot compete or coach internationally, although he has maintained his innocence, claiming concerns about the testing kit used. This suspension has affected his wrestling career, including participation in events such as the Paris Olympics.
- In 2024, Bajrang, along with fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat, joined the Indian National Congress party and faced threats related to his political involvement.
- In September 2025, Bajrang Punia announced the death of his father, Balwan Punia, who had been battling lung complications. His father was a former wrestler and a significant influence in Bajrang's wrestling career.
- Bajrang did not participate in the 2025 World Wrestling Championships; another wrestler, Sujeet Kalkal, competed in Bajrang's usual weight category, suggesting Bajrang's suspension or personal circumstances affected his participation.
Overall, Bajrang Punia's wrestling career has been interrupted by a doping ban, he has entered politics with the Congress party, and he recently experienced a personal loss with the passing of his father.
