Mallakhamba

Mallakhamba is a traditional sport practiced in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The term ‘Mallakhamb’ is from ‘malla’ meaning wrestler and ‘khamb’ meaning pole. It involves the performance of aerial yoga and gymnastic postures using a wooden pole, cane or ropes. This pole is usually made from Indian Rosewood (called Sheesham) and is polished using castor oil. It is the state sport of Madhya Pradesh. It was recently included by the sports ministry to the Khelo India Youth Games 2021.