The Jetties of Mysuru have been continuously following their traditional practice of Indian wrestling or Kusti which has been an integral part of Mysuru and Dasara festivities. Tiger Balaji is one such prominent figure, who has dedicated his life for wrestling. He was trained at 'Bhoothappana Garadi' and has been one of the greatest wrestlers of Mysuru. Being the son of M.R. Sudarshan, an Olympic champion in weight-lifting, athleticism and discipline is evident in his blood. His journey to reach the heights of wrestling is admirable for the amount of sacrifice and energy he has put in. But his efforts and laurels haven’t received much recognition from the government. His career statistics speak for themselves as he has lost only three bouts or battles out of the 150-plus matches that he has played.
He says, “It is very sad to see that those people who lost to me in the akhada have received Kannada Rajyotsava State Award and I’m yet to receive one. I have been at my best in every fight and have managed to win almost all of them.”
