From Auto Rickshaw in Kozhikode Lanes to Arm Wrestling Champion: Kerala's Shoukath VT hopes further glory in Pro Panja League | Exclusive

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In the bustling lanes of Kozhikode, Kerala, Shoukath VT leads a life of humility as an auto-rickshaw driver. But when he steps onto the arm-wrestling table, he becomes a force to reckon with.

Representing the Kochi KD's in the Pro Panja League, Shoukath's journey from a labour-intensive life to the limelight of national television is nothing short of inspiring.

If you have ever been to Kerala, you will find the beautiful essence of the place. And up around the northern half of God's Own country, lies the Kozhikode district, which is also known for its spices and succulent Malabar cuisines. Shoukath hails from Kozhikode, as you may soon read.

Kozhikode, known for its magnificent Arabian Sea coast, has produced some excellent sportspersons as well. P.T. Usha, footballer TP Rehenesh, badminton player Aparna Balan, Asian Championship Gold medal winner Jisna Mathew are some of the prominent names who hail from this part of the country. And Shoukath has been making his name as well.

In an exclusive interview with MyKhel, the 42-year-old opens up about his beginnings, daily grind, and what it means to compete for his home team.

Q: How has been the journey of your Life?

Shoukath: I'm from Kozhikode, Kerala. I work as an auto driver now, but I've done several jobs over the years - including stone work and carpentry. I started arm wrestling when I was around 18. I had just joined a gym and saw a panja table there. I gave it a try and stuck with it. It's been 25 years since then. I got selected for the Pro Panja League after participating in their ranking tournament.

Q: You've had a long journey. How did it feel to finally get a platform like Pro Panja after 25 years?

Shoukath: I never had a platform like this before. I'm truly thankful to Parvin sir and Preeti ma'am for building such a stage for arm wrestlers like us. This kind of recognition - being on TV and representing a professional team - was unimaginable. It's a blessing from God.

Q: You drive an auto for a living. How do you manage to train for Pro Panja around such a demanding job?

Shoukath: It's not easy. I wake up early and train in the morning, then go to work. In the evening, I train again. I've built a small setup on the terrace of my house for practice. This sport requires daily discipline, especially for someone like me who has to manage both livelihood and passion.

Q: What does your training focus on? Do you have any specific strategy or focus on certain muscles?

Shoukath: Yes, for arm wrestling, wrist strength is key. But you also need strong shoulders, triceps, biceps, and forearms. Everything must be trained consistently. If your hands aren't strong enough, you can get seriously injured. So we train hard every day in Kozhikode.

Q: Last season you played for Kochi KDs, and you're playing again this year. How does it feel to represent your home team?

Shoukath: It's a matter of great pride. Everyone in Kerala considers Kochi KD's our team. There's an emotional connection. Last season, we won the championship, and this time we are aiming for it again. The whole team is practicing with one goal - to win for Kerala again.

Q: What was the reaction of your family and friends when they saw you on national television?

Shoukath: They were thrilled. Everyone at home watched it on Sony Sports. Friends from all over called to congratulate me. People who never thought they'd see me on TV were so happy. It was a proud moment not just for me but for my entire family.

Q: What kind of change has this league brought to your life - personally and financially?

Shoukath: Life has definitely changed. After I participated, people started recognising me more. They tell me I'm lucky to be on such a platform. Financially, things have become more secure. It's a relief that my passion is now also helping me support my family.

Q: Any final message for your fans and supporters ahead of Season 2 of Pro Panja League?

Shoukath: To all fans and especially to people in Kerala - we will fight, and we will win for Kochi KD's again. Please continue to support us. We are training hard, and we are determined to make Kerala proud again in Season 2.

Not just that, Shoukath also represented India in the recent Asian Arm Wrestling Championship, which saw a host of Kerala athletes participating. Shoukath won three medals in that competition, a Gold, Silver and Bronze each.

Pro Panja League Season 2 begins on August 5 in Gwalior, and eyes will be on this quiet warrior from Kozhikode who proves every day that greatness can rise from the most unexpected corners.