Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.
Locho
Series, 3rd place
Spectators are impatiently waiting for the start of the match. They give material and spiritual help to hold this competition, such as donating a cow or sheep, blankets or cash.
Everything is being prepared for a local competition. Villagers install large loudspeakers in the square to report on games and perform live local music.
After the cowardly loss of the wrestler Saadatpour, his friends take him to the judges' place to restore his rights.
The wrestler's body is plastered when he falls. Locho competitions are held on clay and grass fields.
The winning wrestler has received his prize.
Locho Karan; Milad Nowrozi (red dress) local wrestling legend Locho is competing with his opponent in the final match. So far, he has never been defeated in Locho tournaments.
Winner of the final battle. Muhammad's opponent was unable to stand at the final moment. Mohammad Pahlavan Akhlaq became the winner of this tournament.
The wrestler known as Ebi is talking to the referee Seyed Ramadan (himself a Locho wrestler for many years). By carving the symbol of wrestling and the Olympics on his back, he wishes to participate in the Olympics.
Milad Fathi, the champion of the competition, after receiving his prize, puts a sheep around his neck and walks around proudly.
Devoted spectators wait until nightfall for the winner of the games. The Locho wrestling matches have brought joy and happiness to the people of the region.