In the heart of Uttar Pradesh, where tradition meets tenacity, emerges the inspiring tale of Anuj Chaudhary—a man who transitioned from the wrestling arenas of rural India to the challenging streets of Sambhal as a fearless police officer. Known for his robust physique, unflinching resolve, and a career marked by both accolades and controversies, Anuj Chaudhary’s journey is one of grit, glory, and an unwavering commitment to duty.
Early Life: The Roots of a Champion
Born on August 5, 1980, in the quaint village of Baheri in Muzaffarnagar district, Anuj Chaudhary grew up in a modest farming family. His father, Brijpal Singh Chaudhary, a hardworking farmer, instilled in him the values of perseverance and discipline—qualities that would later define his life. As a young boy, Anuj found his calling not in the fields but on the wrestling mats. In a region where kushti (traditional Indian wrestling) is more than a sport—it’s a way of life—Anuj’s towering frame and natural strength made him a standout.
His wrestling journey began in the dusty akharas (training grounds) of his village, where he honed his skills under the watchful eyes of local gurus. What started as a pastime soon became a passion, propelling him to regional and national stages. By 1997, Anuj was making waves, clinching titles at the National Games and establishing himself as a formidable freestyle wrestler in the light heavyweight category.
A Decorated Wrestling Career
Anuj Chaudhary’s wrestling career is a testament to his relentless drive. Competing in the 74-84 kg divisions, he amassed an impressive array of accolades. In 2001, he was honored with the Lakshman Award for his contributions to wrestling, a precursor to greater recognition. His crowning achievement came in 2005 when he received the prestigious Arjuna Award, one of India’s highest sporting honors, acknowledging his excellence on the mat.
Internationally, Anuj represented India with pride. At the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, he secured a silver medal, narrowly missing gold in a hard-fought bout against Canada’s Nicholas Ugoalah. That same year, he competed at the Asian Games in Busan, South Korea, finishing in the top ten despite an injury setback. His resilience shone through at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where he qualified for the Indian squad in the 84 kg class, placing 16th after intense matches against global contenders. Later, he added bronze medals at the Asian Wrestling Championships in 2005 and 2009, and capped his career with another silver at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, competing in front of a roaring home crowd.
From the Mat to the Badge: A New Calling
In 2010, after a stellar wrestling career, Anuj retired from the sport to embark on a new chapter—one that would test his strength in a different arena. Recognizing his sporting prowess, the Uttar Pradesh government recruited him into the state police force under the sports quota. On October 31, 2012, Anuj Chaudhary officially joined as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), a role confirmed on September 20, 2014, with a promotion following on August 10, 2019.
His transition from wrestler to police officer was seamless yet striking. The same discipline, courage, and physicality that defined his wrestling career now fueled his work in law enforcement. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Anuj quickly earned a reputation as a bold and decisive officer, unafraid to confront challenges head-on.
Sambhal: The Spotlight of Duty and Controversy
Anuj Chaudhary’s posting as Circle Officer in Sambhal, a town in Uttar Pradesh known for its complex socio-religious dynamics, thrust him into the public eye. His tenure has been a rollercoaster of high-stakes incidents, from managing communal tensions to facing personal risks.
In November 2024, during violent clashes in Sambhal sparked by a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid, Anuj was injured when a bullet struck his leg. The unrest saw mobs attack police personnel, leaving several injured, yet Anuj stood firm, embodying the resilience that once carried him through wrestling bouts. The arrest of the shooter, Salim, in January 2025, marked a victory for his team, underscoring his leadership under pressure.
His actions, however, have not been without controversy. In January 2025, a viral video of Anuj wielding a mace (gada) while in uniform during a religious procession sparked debate. Critics, including former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur, accused him of violating police conduct rules, prompting an investigation. Yet, Anuj remained unfazed, posting defiantly on social media: “Jai Bajrang Bali, main toh jawan hi…”—a nod to his enduring vigor and spirit.
Perhaps his most polarizing moment came in March 2025, ahead of Holi, when he urged the Muslim community in Sambhal to stay indoors during the festival to avoid potential clashes with Holi celebrations coinciding with Friday prayers. While he framed it as a call for peace—emphasizing mutual respect between Hindus and Muslims—opposition leaders like Samajwadi Party’s Ram Gopal Yadav accused him of inciting division, even threatening jail time if their party regained power. Despite the backlash, Holi and Jumma prayers passed peacefully in Sambhal, a testament to his strategic foresight.
A Father’s Plea and a Son’s Resolve
The controversies surrounding Anuj took a personal turn when his father, Brijpal Singh, publicly expressed concerns for his son’s safety in March 2025. Citing threats from political adversaries and potential ISI attention, Brijpal appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for enhanced security. Anuj, however, brushed off the fears in an interview with News18 India, saying, “I’ve done nothing wrong, so why should I fear?” His calm defiance underscored a man accustomed to facing challenges—be it on the mat or in the line of duty.
The Man Behind the Uniform
At 44, Anuj Chaudhary remains a towering figure—both literally and figuratively. Standing well over six feet with a wrestler’s build, he cuts an imposing silhouette. Yet, those who know him describe a man of simplicity and conviction, rooted in his rural upbringing and driven by a sense of service. His social media presence reveals a lighter side—dancing with colleagues during Holi celebrations at the ASP office in March 2025, or sharing motivational snippets from his journey.
Legacy in the Making
Anuj Chaudhary’s story is far from over. Whether he’s celebrated as a hero for maintaining peace or critiqued for his unorthodox methods, one thing is clear: he’s a man who doesn’t back down. From the akharas of Baheri to the volatile streets of Sambhal, his life is a narrative of strength, adaptability, and an unrelenting pursuit of what he believes is right. As he continues to navigate the complexities of policing in a polarized landscape, Anuj Chaudhary stands as a symbol of how far determination can take you—mace in hand or not.