Strong, Determined, Unstoppable: India’s Women Athletes on the Global Stage

In a country where cricket often overshadows other sports and where societal norms have long dictated the roles women should play, Indian female athletes have consistently defied expectations. From athletics to archery, boxing ring to badminton courts, and from hitting the golf ball to shooting bullets, these women have not only broken records but also shattered stereotypes, inspiring a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional. With the Paris Olympics 2024 just over, we are still reminiscing the various victories we witnessed. This article delves into the stories of some of these trailblazing athletes, exploring their journeys, the challenges they faced, and the legacies they are creating.

The Rise of Indian Female Athletes

Over the past decade, Indian sports have witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of successful female athletes. This trend is not just a testament to their talent but also to their determination to break free from societal constraints. While male athletes have traditionally enjoyed more visibility and support, women athletes have had to carve out their own space, often fighting against deeply ingrained gender biases.

One of the most prominent examples of this phenomenon is PV Sindhu, the first Indian woman to win an Olympic silver medal in badminton. Sindhu’s journey to the top was not an easy one. Born in a family with a sporting background, she started playing badminton at a young age. However, her rise to the pinnacle of the sport was marked by grueling training sessions, immense pressure, and the constant need to prove herself in a male-dominated field. Despite the odds, Sindhu has not only achieved international success but has also become a role model for countless young girls in India who aspire to make a mark in sports.

Another remarkable athlete who has redefined what it means to be a woman in Indian sports is Mary Kom, a six-time world boxing champion and an Olympic bronze medalist. Hailing from a small village in Manipur, Mary Kom’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in a region plagued by economic hardships and political unrest, she took up boxing at a time when the sport was almost unheard of for women in India. Her determination and grit saw her rise through the ranks, becoming a symbol of empowerment for women not just in India but globally. Mary Kom’s story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and perseverance, even the most daunting obsacles can be overcome.

Wrestling’s Revolution: The Phogat Sisters and Vinesh Phogat

Wrestling, traditionally viewed as a male-dominated sport in India, has seen a revolution in recent years, largely due to the contributions of the Phogat family. The success of the Phogat sisters—Geeta, Babita, and Vinesh Phogat—has not only brought the sport into the limelight but has also challenged societal norms regarding what women can achieve in sports.

Geeta Phogat was the first Indian woman wrestler to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and the first Indian woman to qualify for the Olympics in wrestling. Her younger sister, Babita Phogat, followed in her footsteps, winning medals at the Commonwealth Games and becoming a national icon.

However, it was Vinesh Phogat who truly emerged as a star on the global stage. Vinesh, a cousin of Geeta and Babita, made headlines when she became the first Indian woman wrestler to win gold at both the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games. Her journey to the Olympics, however, was marked by a dramatic and painful setback.

Vinesh’s story has resonated with many, highlighting that setbacks are only a part of the journey, and what matters most is the courage to rise again.

Breaking Stereotypes in Wrestling and Weightlifting

Wrestling and weightlifting are often considered the epitome of masculine sports, requiring immense physical strength and endurance. However, Indian women have not only entered these arenas but have excelled in them, challenging the stereotypes associated with female athletes.

Sakshi Malik, who won a bronze medal in wrestling at the 2016 Rio Olympics, is a shining example of this. Hailing from Haryana, Sakshi’s achievements are nothing short of revolutionary. Wrestling, traditionally seen as a male domain, was not a common career choice for girls in her village. However, with the support of her family, Sakshi pursued her passion and made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal. Her success has sparked a wrestling revolution among young girls in Haryana, many of whom now see wrestling as a viable and respected career option.

Karnam Malleswari is another trailblazer who broke stereotypes in the world of weightlifting. She became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal when she clinched the bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Malleswari’s achievement was a game-changer for Indian sports, as it brought women’s weightlifting into the limelight and challenged the notion that Indian women were not strong enough to compete in such physically demanding sports. Her success paved the way for future generations of female weightlifters, proving that women could excel in any sport they chose.

How Media and Public Perception Impact the Players

The success of these athletes has also been instrumental in changing the way female athletes are perceived in India. For a long time, women’s sports were relegated to the sidelines, with minimal media coverage and public support. However, as Indian women began to achieve success on the international stage, the narrative started to shift.

The media played a crucial role in bringing these athletes’ stories to the forefront, helping to challenge stereotypes and inspire a broader audience. Films like “Dangal”, which depicted the real-life story of wrestlers Geeta and Babita Phogat, have further contributed to changing perceptions. The Phogat sisters, coached by their father in the face of immense societal opposition, went on to win multiple international medals, proving that gender should never be a barrier to success in sports.

Similarly, the biographical film “Mary Kom”, starring Priyanka Chopra, brought the story of the legendary boxer to a wider audience, showcasing her struggles and triumphs. These films have not only celebrated the achievements of these athletes but have also played a significant role in challenging the traditional views on women’s roles in Indian society.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the success of these athletes has brought about significant changes, there are still many challenges that female athletes in India face. Lack of infrastructure, limited access to quality training, and societal pressure are just a few of the hurdles that women continue to encounter. Additionally, the disparity in pay and sponsorship opportunities between male and female athletes remains a significant issue.

However, the future looks promising. The growing visibility and success of female athletes have led to increased investment in women’s sports, with more opportunities for young girls to pursue careers in athletics. Organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in sports are also gaining momentum, helping to create a more supportive environment for female athletes.

The impact of these trailblazing women extends far beyond the sports arena. They are not just breaking records; they are breaking down barriers and challenging the deep-rooted stereotypes that have long confined women to certain roles in Indian society. Their achievements are inspiring a new generation of girls to dream big and to believe that they too can succeed in any field they choose, regardless of societal expectations.

As India continues to produce world-class female athletes, the message is clear: Women in sports are here to stay, and they are not just competing—they are winning. These women are not only changing the face of Indian sports but are also contributing to a broader movement towards gender equality and empowerment.

– Dr. Sailaja is a seasoned HR leader, guest speaker, and enthusiast of sustainable practices.