From Domestic Helper to Football Coach: The Inspiring Journey of Nishi Bodra

Nishi Bodra's journey from a domestic helper to an AIFF-certified football coach is a testament to resilience and determination. With support from the Tata Steel Foundation, she has become a role model for young girls, proving that dreams can be achieved despite challenges. Her story highlights the importance of mentorship and opportunities in shaping futures. Nishi's transformation not only inspires others but also emphasizes the potential of women in sports. Read on to learn more about her remarkable journey and the impact she is making in her community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 11, 2026, 23:05 IST

Nishi Bodra's Remarkable Transformation

By Manas Mohanty

Location: Joda

Nishi Bodra, a 24-year-old domestic worker from Azad Basti in Joda block, has shown remarkable resilience and determination, turning her life around and becoming a beacon of hope for many girls by achieving her dream of coaching football.

With the backing of the Tata Steel Foundation (TSF), Nishi has transitioned from her role as a maid to an All India Football Federation (AIFF)-certified coach.

After losing her father at a young age, she was raised by relatives and took on domestic work to support her family. Despite facing financial hardships, she persevered with her education, motivated by a teacher who urged her to continue studying. Her football journey began in 2013 while she was in seventh grade.

She started playing with friends at school, where she met coach Badal Mohanta, who recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue the sport, providing her with essential equipment.

Thanks to his mentorship and the support from TSF, Nishi honed her skills and moved closer to her aspirations.

Her inspiring journey from a domestic worker to an AIFF-certified coach is now motivating countless young girls to chase their dreams, regardless of societal and economic barriers.

In 2014, Mohanta, a former Santosh Trophy player and AIFF C-licensed coach, partnered with TSF to establish a girls' football training center. What began with 25 girls has now expanded to over 140 participants from Kendujhar and Sundargada districts.

Nishi faced numerous challenges in her football career, including a tough 12-0 loss in a district-level tournament in Bargada. However, she learned from this experience and showcased her skills in various competitions, including the 2022 SDC Cup.

Reflecting on her early challenges, Nishi emphasized her determination to overcome the defeat in her first match, attributing her resilience to the encouragement from her coach.

Recognizing her leadership abilities, Mohanta inspired her to consider coaching as a career. Nishi eventually left her domestic job to focus on football full-time.

With direct assistance from TSF, she obtained the AIFF E License and later the D License, allowing her to coach children under 10 in the Joda area, where she conducts training sessions five days a week.

Chinmay Bora, assistant manager (sports) at TSF, remarked that Nishi's success illustrates how girls can forge their own paths when provided with the right opportunities and mentorship.