India@2047 Summit: Icons Mithali Raj, Rani Rampal, and Lovlina Borgohain Share Gritty Journeys of Breaking Barriers in Indian Sports

At the India@2047 Summit, three of India’s most iconic sportswomen—Mithali Raj, Rani Rampal, and Lovlina Borgohain—shared their powerful journeys, reflecting on the struggles and triumphs that shaped their careers. Mithali Raj, former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, spoke candidly about breaking stereotypes. Initially a Bharatnatyam dancer, Mithali took up cricket at age nine, inspired by her brother’s practice sessions. She recalled the challenges of being one of the few girls in a male-dominated sport and emphasized the importance of parental support and equal opportunity in sports. Rani Rampal, ex-captain of the Indian women’s hockey team, shared her journey from a poverty-stricken family in Haryana to becoming a Padma Shri and Khel Ratna awardee. Starting at age seven, she overcame social stigma and financial hardship, driven by a dream to prove that even a cart-puller’s daughter could play for India. Olympic boxer Lovlina Borgohain, the first from Assam to win an Olympic medal, highlighted the lack of facilities in the Northeast and the emotional toll of being away from home. She credited meditation and positivity for helping her navigate mental pressures in the ring. Their stories underscored resilience, grit, and the need for systemic support to empower future generations of Indian sportswomen.