In Bengaluru's competitive fitness landscape, a new trend is emerging, shifting focus from high-tech gym equipment to the time-honored tools of traditional Indian strength training. At the forefront of this movement is Tagda Raho, a startup successfully reintroducing ancient practices like the gada and mudgar to a modern, urban demographic.
From Personal Recovery to National Recognition
Founded by Rishabh Malhotra, Tagda Raho's origins are deeply personal. Malhotra himself overcame 75 percent arm paralysis caused by bacterial neuritis by consistently using traditional Indian tools when conventional treatments failed. This profound experience became the catalyst for a broader mission: to re-establish these effective, yet often overlooked, training methods in the mainstream.
The startup has quickly gained significant traction and high-profile endorsements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognized Tagda Raho on his 'Mann Ki Baat' program for its innovative blend of ancient techniques with modern fitness approaches. Cricket icon MS Dhoni has also invested in the venture, further boosting its profile. Additionally, the Indian Army’s elite Para Special Forces invited Tagda Raho to design a specialized training capsule for their soldiers, underscoring the practical efficacy of its methods.
The Tagda Raho Training Philosophy
Unlike conventional gym workouts that often isolate muscle groups, Tagda Raho emphasizes off-centre loading. This principle involves swinging equipment like the gada and mudgar, forcing the body to manage dynamic forces and engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Malhotra explains that this approach trains the body to function as a cohesive unit, building comprehensive strength, grip, forearm power, and core stability.
A typical 60 to 70-minute session at Tagda Raho follows a circuit-based structure, incorporating 7 to 9 movements. These include bodyweight exercises alongside gada, mudgar, and samtola training. The focus is on full-body coordination and building resilience, a holistic approach that Malhotra believes fosters not just physical strength but also mental fortitude.
Broad Appeal and Sustainable Fitness
Tagda Raho's unique approach is resonating across generations. While Gen Z users are drawn to its novelty and effectiveness, older individuals appreciate its emphasis on longevity and sustainable fitness. The startup boasts an impressive 75 percent retention rate among its members aged 30 and above, with its oldest participant being 74 years old. This cross-generational appeal highlights the universal benefits of its training philosophy.
Priced at ₹4,999 per month, the membership includes essential physiotherapy support, reflecting Malhotra's commitment to holistic well-being. In an era dominated by high-intensity interval training, Tagda Raho champions a more balanced approach rooted in Indian physical culture, prioritizing repetition, rhythm, breath, patience, and ultimately, long-term health and vitality.