The Great Officer Khali

An article from The Times of India takes a look at Singh Rana, also known as The Great Khali. According to the article the 7 foot 3 superstar was recruited to the Punjab Police back in 1994 around the Himachal village of Simour. Right now as you'd guess Khali is on a "leave without pay", which he's been on for 3 years since being a wrestling star.

The article states Rana (Khali) is a sub-inspector for the Punjab police, but that his fellow officers are proud of his accomplisments, squashing wrestlers in the WWE.

A senior police officer, smiling with pride spoke of how his colleague is on medical leave "but is thrashing foreign opponents with his Indian fist."

ADGP Rajan Gupta of Punjab Armed Police, where Khali is "posted" in Jalandhar, said, "I don't think there is anything wrong in extending his leave. He is an asset to the department and an exception can always be made."

The love for Khali runs across departments. ADGP (law and order) Chander Shekhar said, "He should be treated as an exceptional case. He has become a brand and in my opinion his name should instead be suggested for a Padma Shree or any other national award."

His family, some of whom are now in the police, too are backing him to the hilt. "I don't think my brother has done anything wrong in asking for leave," said Mangat Singh Rana, Khali's younger, much shorter, sibling.

"Don't ask us about his leave. We just want to enjoy the next match in Atlanta on March 30. He'll beat up everybody again."

The March 30th match was of course Khali in the 24 Man Battle Royal at Orlando's Wrestlemania. Khali was tossed out of the ring in unison by several of the competitors, losing the match and a shot at the ECW title.

Full article: Cop Khali trounces WWE rivals