Women’s Day is a significant occasion as it allows society to take a pause and laud the efforts of people who have championed women’s rights worldwide. A society that values and respects all genders is one that can be considered a progressive one.

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Today, we celebrate Women’s Day by highlighting the achievements of India’s top female athletes who have risen through the ranks and have become role models for plenty of young girls in the country.

Mirabai Chanu

Mirabai Chanu has become synonymous with Indian weightlifting. She became world champion in 2017 and then went on to win her second world weightlifting championships silver medal in Bogota 2022. She also bagged consecutive gold medals at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022. She also won the bronze at the 2020 Asian Championships. However, Tokyo 2020 Olympics was her most memorable moment as she secured a silver medal.

Sania Mirza

From being mocked at for her tennis attire, to even being trolled for her personal relationships, Sania Mirza has seen it all and has never let these come in her way. The champion tennis player made her mark in the sport — both before and after being a mother. After becoming a mother in late 2018, she prioritised her maternal duties, but when she did make a comeback in 2020, she looked ready for the challenges. One of the toughest players out there, Mirza is certainly an inspiration for people around.

Saina Nehwal

Before Sindhu elevated badminton, Saina Nehwal had already paved a path with a bronze at London 2012 Olympics. She was the torchbearer in this sport and she kicked on after her London triumph to notch up podium finishes at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

Sakshi Malik

Male athletes have always found a prominent place in wrestling in India and it was in 2016 at the Rio Olympics that India got a champion in the women’s category. Sakshi Malik made history as the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic wrestling medal when she won bronze in the 58kg category.

PV Sindhu

One of India’s greatest ever athletes, PV Sindhu was the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals. She made history with her silver medal at Rio 2016. She is one of the greatest shuttle players in the modern era and has cemented India’s position as a formidable contender in the sport, especially after her triumph at the BWF World Championships.

Mary Kom

A trailblazer if ever there was one — MC Mary Kom has set a benchmark in boxing as she rose from humble beginnings to not only bag an Olympic medal but also set a remarkable example for female athletes in India on multiple fronts. She has six world titles to her name and even made a triumphant return to the ring after childbirth.

Mithali Raj

Mithali Raj, a pioneer in Indian women’s cricket, has almost redefined the narrative of women’s cricket with her outstanding performances and leadership. She is the top run-scorer in women’s ODIs and has inspired inspired generations with her skill, resilience, and unwavering dedication.

Jhulan Goswami

Much like Mithali, Jhulan Goswami too has played a humongous role in putting women’s cricket on the map. She ended her career as the highest wicket-taker in women’s ODIs and is one of the icons of the game.