Mallakhamba

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Mallakhamba, or mallakhamb is a traditional sport, originating from the Indian subcontinent, in which a group of gymnasts perform aerial yoga and gymnastic postures using wrestling grips in concert with a stationary vertical pole. The word "mallakhamb" also refers to the pole used in the sport.^[1] The pole is usually made from sheesham (Indian rosewood) polished with castor oil.^[2] Other popular versions of mallakhamba are practiced using a cane or a rope instead of a pole.^[3] The origins of pole dancing can be traced back to the sport of mallakhamba.^[4]

The name mallakhamba derives from the terms malla, meaning wrestler, and khamb, which means a pole. Literally meaning "wrestling pole", the term refers to a traditional training implement used by wrestlers.^[5]

On April 9, 2013, the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh declared mallakhamba the state sport. As of 2017^[update], more than 20 other states in India have followed suit.^[6]