India creates history with 4 medals at Savate World Cup in Uzbekistan; 3 medallists from Bihar, one Himachal

TNR News Network
New Delhi:
In a remarkable achievement, India has etched its name in the history books by winning four medals at the Savate World Cup 2025, held from July 23 to 28 at the Universal Sports Indoor Stadium in Uzbekistan. Competing against elite fighters from over 40 countries, the Indian contingent made a powerful debut in the international arena of this ancient French martial art.

This marked the first time ever that India officially participated in a global Savate championship and it turned out to be a landmark start. Out of five Indian boxers selected, two were from Himachal Pradesh and three from Bihar. Four of them brought home medals.

The medallists are:
• Varun Walia from Himachal Pradesh – Bronze in the -48 kg category
• Yash Raj from Muzaffarpur, Bihar – Silver in the -85 kg category
• Priyam Karna, also from Muzaffarpur – Bronze in the -48 kg category
• Sweety Kumari from Vaishali, Bihar – Bronze in the -56 kg category

Chief coach of the Indian team, Shihan E. Rahul Shrivastav, expressed pride over the team’s success. “This is a historic moment for Indian Savate. I can hardly believe we are returning with four medals. It’s not just a victory for our athletes but a victory for the tricolour, for the 1.4 billion people of India. I had once dreamt of representing India myself, but today, as a coach, my dream has been fulfilled through these talented fighters,” he said.

He emphasised the significance of this breakthrough for Indian martial arts, particularly for the growing Savate community in Bihar and Himachal Pradesh. “We’ve come from small towns and modest clubs, yet reached a global stage. Now, we urge the Indian and Bihar governments to officially recognize Savate. It is already acknowledged by the Uzbekistan Sports Ministry and Olympic Committee and many other countries. Savate is also registered under the Bihar Olympic Association. It deserves a place in Bihar’s official sports calendar and our athletes deserve their due recognition.”

The medal-winning athletes will return to India on July 29, landing in Patna, where a grand welcome awaits them. Over 20 welcome points have been set up from Patna Airport to their home club — RAS World Martial Arts Academy in Muzaffarpur. Preparations are underway and the district administration has also been informed to ensure smooth arrangements.

“This medal haul is not just a personal milestone for the athletes, but a major leap forward for the sport of Savate in India,” said Shrivastav.