Sakshi Malik’s story embodies the spirit of women who break free from societal constraints to pursue their dreams. During a recent conversation via Zoom, the Olympic medalist radiated warmth and positivity, her youthful face beaming with joy. For those unfamiliar with her journey, her images—triumphantly holding the Indian flag—might not fully convey the strength and determination behind her smile.
As we discussed her latest book, Witness, it became evident that her narrative transcends wrestling. It is a powerful testament to the rewards of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of one’s goals. Malik’s playful nature shone through as she joked, “Don’t tell me you like my book just because we’re talking in person,” prompting me to assure her of my genuine admiration.
Malik hails from Mokhra, a small village distant from the bustling cities of Mumbai and Delhi. Growing up, she enjoyed a sense of freedom that many girls in her community lacked. “My grandfather was the sarpanch, so I didn’t have many restrictions. While other girls wore salwaar kameez, I was free to wear shorts and T-shirts,” she recalls. This upbringing likely influenced her self-assured demeanor.
However, moving to an English-medium school in nearby Rohtak exposed her to new pressures. “Everyone there seemed perfectly put together—pressed skirts, neat blazers. I thought that if I had those things, I too would be considered beautiful,” she reflects. Initially, she linked beauty to appearance and grooming. But over time, her perspective shifted. “Now, I see beauty differently. I believe a good character and ideology make someone truly beautiful.”
In a candid conversation with Vogue, Malik discussed her body image, femininity, and life-changing practices that transformed her mindset.
Vogue India: In your book, you mention your coach urging you to “become like a lion.” Did this mindset feel like a departure from your earlier self? How did your attitude change?
Sakshi Malik: I had two sides—one for the mat and one for everyday life. People often assume wrestlers are aggressive, but that’s not accurate. On the mat, I focus solely on my performance. Off the mat, I’m calm and polite. Just because I’m aggressive in sport doesn’t mean I am in my daily life.
VI: You once felt that embracing femininity—like keeping long hair—might conflict with wrestling. How has your belief evolved?
SM: That perspective was shaped by coaches and the senior wrestlers I looked up to. They had short hair and boyish looks, leading us to believe that looking feminine meant you couldn’t be a good wrestler. But traveling and competing internationally opened my eyes. I saw Olympic champions with long hair and stylish clothes who excelled. It took time, but I learned there’s no connection between appearance and performance. I won my Olympic medal with long hair and nail polish.
VI: Did you have any wellness rituals during the Olympics that helped you focus?
SM: I met my husband, Satyawart, in 2015. He introduced me to The Secret, which changed my mindset. I began practicing manifestation and embracing the law of attraction. Before, I focused solely on my opponent and strategy. Now, I visualize my success. I even have a diary from 2015-2016 where I sketched myself with the flag on the podium, and that’s exactly what happened.
VI: You stress the importance of cleanliness in wrestling. Do you have a self-care routine despite the physical nature of the sport?
SM: I don’t focus on keeping the mat spotless. It’s a sacred space for me, like a place of worship. Sweat, hair, or blood don’t make it dirty—they’re part of the process.
VI: What does your skincare routine look like as an Olympic athlete?
SM: I’ve never had an extensive skincare routine. At 32, I keep it simple—using kajal and lip gloss occasionally, and sunscreen for important events. I’ve always felt comfortable with my clean skin, though I love perfumes.
VI: Which perfume do you prefer?
SM: I can’t pronounce the names, but I own 3-4 brands, including Gucci.
VI: You mentioned not using makeup before 2015. What’s your favorite now?
SM: I love my smile, and I think blush enhances it. I can get ready in about 15 minutes without relying on hair and makeup artists. My first makeup item was kajal, and I can’t imagine going without it.
VI: How important is your nutrition regimen, and what do you crave?
SM: My nutrition changes with my competition schedule. After competitions, I allow myself treats. While training, I’m disciplined and avoid tempting foods like Maggi or bhature.
VI: You’ve felt like an underdog at times, especially when peers were nominated as favorites. How did you handle that?
SM: I focused on my hard work and dedication. I believed I would win. My commitment paid off when I earned a medal in my first Olympics, even when others didn’t see me as a favorite.
VI: There’s pressure on women to look a certain way, especially in sports. What are your thoughts on this?
SM: I encourage young girls to look beyond appearances and focus on their goals. Taking care of your body now helps you achieve your dreams. Since winning a medal, people see me differently. They say I’m pretty, but it’s my achievements that make me beautiful. The success speaks for itself.
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