Women in Sports

Indian Women in Sports

The history of Indian sportswomen is a narrative of resilience and triumph over adversity. Historically, Indian sportswomen have had to contend with a lack of infrastructure, inadequate training facilities, and minimal financial support. Cultural expectations often dictated that women should prioritize domestic responsibilities over athletic pursuits, leading to fewer opportunities for girls to engage in sports. They have been breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks, inspiring millions with their dedication and achievements.

 

All these remarkable women from diverse cultural backgrounds have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also become beacons of empowerment and perseverance. Their records and accolades reflect their hard work and determination. They serve as role models, encouraging young girls across the nation to pursue their dreams and break the glass ceiling in every field, including sports. The legacy of these sportswomen continues to inspire and shape the future of Indian sports.

 

 

 

The Phogat Sisters - Wrestling Royalty 

The Phogat sisters, notably Geeta and Babita, have become synonymous with women’s wrestling in India. Their stories of overcoming societal pressures and excelling in a male-dominated sport were popularized by the Bollywood film ‘Dangal’. They have won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games and have represented India at the Olympics.

 

Deepika Kumari - The Archer Extraordinaire

 Deepika Kumari is a former world number one archer and has won numerous medals at the World Archery Championships and other international events. Her journey from a small village in Jharkhand to becoming an archery sensation is a tale of true grit and determination.

 

Sania Mirza - The Tennis Champion

Sania Mirza has put Indian tennis on the global map with her exceptional doubles play. She has won several Grand Slam titles in doubles and mixed doubles and has been an inspiration for many young tennis players in the country.

 

Jhulan Goswami - The Cricket Pace Spearhead

Jhulan Goswami is one of the fastest female pacers in the world of cricket and has led the Indian women’s cricket team’s bowling attack for many years. She holds the record for the highest number of wickets in Women’s One Day International cricket.

 

Santhi Soundarajan 

The Track and Field Star -Santhi Soundarajan has won 11 international medals for India in track and field. Despite facing gender scrutiny, she has persevered and continues to inspire athletes across the nation.

Sakshi Malik 

The Wrestling Trailblazer-  Sakshi Malik captured the nation’s heart by winning a bronze medal in wrestling at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Her victory was a moment of pride and a breakthrough for Indian women in the sport of wrestling.

 

Rani Rampal - The Hockey Maestro

Rani Rampal has been a key player for the Indian women’s hockey team and has played a pivotal role in their successes on the international stage. Her leadership and skill have been instrumental in the team’s achievements.

 

Dutee Chand - The Sprint Queen Dutee Chand 

She is a national champion in the women’s 100 meters event and has represented India at various international competitions. She has overcome personal and professional challenges to become a top sprinter for the country.

 

Harmanpreet Kaur - The Dynamic Cricketer

Harmanpreet Kaur’s aggressive batting style has made her a star in the Indian women’s cricket team. She has played several match-winning innings and is known for her leadership on the field.

 

Hima Das

The Dhing Express Hima Das, also known as the ‘Dhing Express’, is an Indian sprinter who has won multiple medals at the Asian Games and holds the national record in the 400 meters event.

 

These women have paved the path for new ones to achieve their dreams and list will keep growing.

 

 

Sports woman	Sport	Notable Achievements	Medals/Titles	National Awards	Years
P.V. Sindhu	Badminton	Olympic Silver (2016),  Bronze (2020),  World Champion (2019)	2 Olympic Medals,  5 World Championship  Medals	Padma Bhushan,  Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2016, 2020, 2019
Saina Nehwal	Badminton	Olympic Bronze (2012),  Multiple CWG and  Asian Games Medals	1 Olympic Medal,  Multiple CWG and  Asian Games Medals	Padma Bhushan,  Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2012
Mithali Raj	Cricket	Highest run-scorer in women’s  international cricket	Led India to two  World Cup finals	Padma Shri,  Arjuna Award	2015, 2003
Mary Kom	Boxing	Olympic Bronze (2012),  6 World Championship Golds	1 Olympic Medal, 6 World  Championship Golds	Padma Bhushan,  Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2012
Karnam  Malleswari	Weightlifting	Olympic Bronze (2000)	1 Olympic Medal	Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2000
Sania Mirza	Tennis	Multiple Grand Slam titles  in doubles and mixed doubles	6 Grand Slam Titles	Padma Bhushan,  Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2004
Geeta Phogat	Wrestling	Commonwealth Gold (2010)	1 Commonwealth  Gold Medal	-	2010
Babita Kumari	Wrestling	Commonwealth Gold (2014)	1 Commonwealth Gold Medal	-	2014
Vinesh Phogat	Wrestling	Commonwealth Gold (2018) , Asian Games Gold (2018)	1 Commonwealth Gold Medal,  1 Asian Games Gold	Rajiv Gandhi  Khel Ratna	2018
Dutee Chand	Athletics	National record in women’s  100 meters	-	-
Hima Das	Athletics	Asian Games Gold (2018)	1 Asian Games Gold Medal	Arjuna Award	2018

 

 

 

Naari Shakti: An Ode to Womanhood

Naari Shakti

Naari Shakti, a force so profound,

In every woman, this power is found.

Like Durga, fierce, a warrior queen,

With wisdom as vast as Saraswati,

Her intellect shines, sets her free.

In every word, in every notion,

She stirs the world, like the ocean.

She conquers battles, unseen, serene.

Like Lakshmi, she brings wealth untold,
Not just in coins, but in hearts she holds.
With grace she nurtures, cares, provides,
In her presence, abundance resides.
As Kali, fearless, she stands her ground,
Injustice faced, she turns it around.
With fierce resolve and strength untamed,
She fights for rights, never to be blamed.

Like Parvati, the epitome of love,
Her compassion vast as skies above.
In her embrace, the world finds peace,
Her love and care, they never cease.
And like Annapurna, she feeds the soul,
With nourishment that makes us whole.
In her hands, the power to heal,
With every meal, her love we feel.
As a mother, she's the life's essence,
Her love, a boundless, deep presence.
In her lullabies, wisdom and might,
Guiding her children through day and night.
Naari Shakti, a tale of might,
In every struggle, she is the light.
Her power, her glory, let's all embrace,
For she is the one who graces our race.
So let's celebrate, let's honor her might,

Happy womens Day!!!