Kiran Pisda: A Rising Star in Indian Football from Tribal Roots

Kiran Pisda, a talented goalkeeper, is making waves in Indian football, drawing on her tribal roots and personal experiences to inspire others. At 24, she has already played in Europe and is striving for a spot on the national team. With the support of her family and mentor, Kiran has transformed her game through hard work and a positive mindset. Despite facing rejection, she remains focused on her goals, advocating for greater opportunities for tribal athletes. Her journey highlights the importance of resilience and determination in sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 2, 2026, 12:43 IST

Kiran Pisda's Journey to Goalkeeping Glory

During the penalty shootout against Arunachal Pradesh in the semi-finals of the Khelo India Tribal Games, Kiran Pisda donned the goalkeeping gloves, drawing on her extensive experience with challenges that have shaped her resilience. At just 24 years old, Kiran is at the height of her abilities, having played league football in Europe and is now eyeing a spot on the Indian national team for major international competitions.

Support and Inspiration

Kiran's journey has been significantly supported by her family and school, particularly her brother Girish, a national-level player who inspires her. "My school provided ample opportunities to compete at state and national levels, which boosted my confidence with each selection," Kiran shared with SAI Media.

A Journey of Self-Improvement

After relocating to Raipur for a degree in physical education, Kiran's talent was recognized during the Chhattisgarh Women's League, leading to her selection for a national camp. However, she realized she needed to enhance her physical fitness and mindset to compete effectively with senior players. "The experience taught me the importance of self-improvement," she reflected.

Mental Resilience and Coaching

Kiran underwent a rigorous self-improvement phase, focusing on her physical fitness and match analysis, while also transforming her mental approach. "I committed to maintaining a positive mindset, as negativity can hinder performance," she explained. A key figure in her development has been her mentor, coach Yogesh Kumar Jangra, who encourages her to stay motivated during tough times.

Professional Growth and Overcoming Rejection

Kiran's dedication has led to opportunities with clubs like Kerala Blasters, where she has honed her versatility on the field. Starting as a striker, she has adapted to play in midfield and now as a full-back for the national team. Despite representing India multiple times, including in the 2022 SAFF Championship and playing in the Croatian Women's League for Dinamo Zagreb, she has faced rejection, particularly missing out on the AFC Women's Asian Cup. "It stings not being selected, but I use it as motivation to improve," she stated.

Mental Fortitude and Team Dynamics

Kiran has developed a strong ability to manage pressure, essential for competing at high levels. "Pressure is a constant; learning to handle it is crucial," she noted. She also emphasized how team performance impacts individual confidence, stating, "When the team excels, it boosts every player's morale, but losses can affect individual performances."

Championing Tribal Talent

Being from a tribal background, Kiran understands the hurdles faced by athletes from remote areas. She advocates for initiatives like the Khelo India Tribal Games, which provide vital platforms for showcasing talent. "There is immense potential in tribal regions, but opportunities are scarce. The Khelo India Tribal Games empower these players to aspire for state and national representation," Kiran remarked.

Future Aspirations

Kiran's immediate goal is to maintain strong performances in domestic leagues like the Indian Women's League and secure regular national team call-ups. However, her ambitions extend beyond that. "I aim to keep improving, consistently perform, and represent India in significant tournaments. Not being selected doesn't reflect your abilities; it simply means you need to work harder," she concluded.