This set of photographs accompanies a group of Kushti fighters during their morning practice in Varanasi, the holiest city for people following the Hindu religion, located in the North of India by the Ganga River. Kushti is an ancient wrestling technique from India dating back about 5000 years and is not only an expression of strength but really a way of life. Once joined an Akhada, a Pahalwan (fighter) has to follow a strict diet plan, prioritize physical and mental health with meditation and yoga being part of the practice, worship the earth they fight on and avoid any alcohol, tobacco or paan. I had the opportunity to spend a morning with Siyaram, the oldest fighter in the Akhada and his mentees to learn about the tradition of Kushti.