In the quiet village of Mayakka Chinchali, far from the spotlight of major sporting arenas, a group of 29 young girls is redefining what determination truly looks like. Training daily on a simple mud ground with minimal facilities, these kabaddi players have already risen to the national level, proving that passion can thrive even in the most modest settings.
The story came to light when Gouree Manjrekar of Pankh Foundation, who visited the village to document their journey, witnessed firsthand the extraordinary grit of these rural athletes.
“What I saw on that mud ground was nothing short of national-level brilliance,” Gouree said.
“These girls train with discipline and heart that could inspire the whole nation. You don’t need fancy infrastructure to spot talent — you need to reach the right places.”
At the heart of this inspiring transformation is Coach Sanjeev, a dedicated mentor who has spent years training rural girls in kabaddi. With limited resources but limitless belief, he has shaped a disciplined, confident team that competes far beyond the expectations set for a small village.
Gouree added,
“Coach Sanjeev’s commitment moved me deeply. He is not just teaching them kabaddi; he is opening doors that many of these girls never thought possible.”
Despite practicing in a basic shed and lacking many standard training amenities, the team’s achievements continue to grow. Their story reinforces a powerful message: while talent may be universal, access to opportunity is not. And when opportunity reaches the grassroots, true magic happens.
During her visit, Gouree was welcomed warmly by the villagers and the team. In a touching gesture, the players presented her with a photo of Goddess Mayakka Devi, a symbol of the village’s pride and blessings.
The video capturing this inspiring journey — shot and narrated by Gouri Manjrekar of Pankh Foundation — showcases the raw ambition and resilience of young athletes who dream big, even when resources are small.
As Belagavi and its surrounding regions continue to shine with hidden talent, stories like these remind us that the future of Indian sports may very well be taking shape in unexpected corners — on mud grounds, inside simple sheds, and in the hearts of young dreamers.