Our Mentors
Our Pride
LT. SHREE DATTARAM DUDAM SIR
Dattaram Dudam sir’s uncle was working as a gardener at Shree Samarth Vijam Mandir in Shivaji Park, Mumbai. Dudam Sir came to Samarth with his uncle at the age of eight from Sangameshwar in Konkan. While helping his uncle every day, Dudam Sir became interested in seeing the players playing Mallakhamb in Sri Samarth Vyayam Mandir. Later, Mallakhamb lessons started. Dudam Sir, even under the poor conditions, with the guidance of Mallakhamb teachers and his willpower he achieved the top position in the game of Mallakhamb for 7 consecutive years at the National Level, 11 years at the State Level, 14 years at the District Level and became a medalist and also earn the position of honour in the Whole Country.
As the Dudam sir’s set began, all eyes were on their game. Datta, Datta was heard all around. No one did the handstand on the top of the pole (the practice of standing upside down while balancing on the end of the pole with both hands) as he did. He was referred to as the handstand king. Dudam sir was honoured with the prestigious Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Award by the Government of Maharashtra in 1979-80 for his contribution to sports. Along with Mallakhamb, Dudam sir also created a distinct identity at the national level in gymnastics. In addition to that, Mallakhamba’s fame earned him a Government Job in the Western Railway and a House from the Government. After completing his successful career as a player, Dudam sir continued to perform valuable services at various levels such as coach, referee, activist, and organizer. He worked tirelessly to promote and spread the Mallakhamb game.
After coming to live in Borivali, Dudam Sir has played a vital role in the progressive development of the Mumbai Upanagar Zillha Mallakhamb Sanghatana since its inception. Today there are around 50 institutions in the Mumbai Suburbs that have sprung up on the initiative of Sir and are working for the Mallakhamb Sport. Dudam Sir played the role of Secretary for 12 years and Chairman for 4 years. He considered it his duty to take everyone along with together and spread Mallakhamb home to home. With the guidance of Dudam Sir, various players, referees, coaches, activists, organizers came upfront directly and indirectly. On 7th October 2020, Dudam Sir passed away in Covid pandamic.
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