Overview

Dalip Singh Rana (born 27 August 1972), better known by his ring name The Great Khali, is an Indian professional wrestler, actor and former powerlifter. He gained international recognition during a run with the U.S.-based World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) from 2006 until 2014. Before his sports-entertainment career he worked as an officer in the Punjab state police and later transitioned into international wrestling and entertainment.

Physical presence and in-ring style

The Great Khali has been widely noted for his exceptional size, which defined his wrestling persona and in-ring role. His style emphasized power moves and strikes, with frequent use of a signature grip-based hold widely known to fans. Promoters typically positioned him as an imposing, dominant competitor whose matches focused on strength and spectacle rather than speed or technical chaining.

Career highlights and development

Khali debuted on WWE programming in 2006 and was presented as a major attraction due to his stature and background. Early in his WWE tenure he was involved in high-profile programs and was featured on televised events and pay-per-views. During his time with the company he held a world championship, a milestone that made him one of the best-known Indian-born performers in global professional wrestling.

Acting, training and later work

Outside the ring, the performer has worked as an actor and appeared in film and television projects in India and internationally. After leaving full-time competition, he turned attention to developing the next generation of talent by founding a training school in India dedicated to professional wrestling instruction and promotion. Through that academy he has helped introduce training standards and opportunities for local athletes to pursue professional wrestling careers.

Notable facts and legacy

  • One of the most internationally visible Indian wrestlers of the 21st century.
  • Known for a signature finishing hold and for being booked as a powerful, larger-than-life attraction.
  • Worked to expand wrestling in India by founding a training facility and mentoring younger performers.
  • Maintains occasional public appearances and has crossed over into film and television work.

For further reading and profiles, see official and biographical pages: Profile 1, Profile 2, and media coverage: Media 1, Media 2. Additional biographical and career resources are available at Resource A, Resource B, and Resource C.