Meet Odisha's Rising Sports Stars: The Future of Indian Athletics

Odisha's Legacy in Sports

Odisha has established itself as a significant contributor to Indian sports, nurturing icons such as Dutee Chand, Dilip Tirkey, Minati Mohapatra, and Amit Rohidas. The state's dedication, bolstered by community and governmental support, has cultivated a dynamic sports culture. Currently, a fresh generation of athletes is gaining recognition, showcasing their talents on both national and international platforms. Here, we highlight five promising athletes from Odisha, each excelling in their respective sports and embodying the state's bright athletic future.

1. Pratap Lakra – Hockey

Pratap Lakra – Hockey

Pratap Lakra is emerging as one of the most talented young hockey players from Odisha. Originating from the famous hockey region of Sundargarh, he has represented the state in various national competitions and is celebrated for his talent and commitment. As he continues to advance in his career, Lakra symbolizes Odisha's rich hockey tradition and is viewed as a potential future star for the national team. In 2025, he was among the two new players invited to the Indian senior men's hockey national camp, following his significant role in Madhya Pradesh's silver medal achievement at the 15th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship.

2. Barial Tudu – Football

Barial Tudu – Football

Barial Tudu is an exciting football talent from Odisha. He represented India at the prestigious FC Bayern Youth Cup World Finals in Germany, where the best young footballers globally compete and learn from elite coaches. Tudu was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for Team India during the event, showcasing his exceptional skills and potential to make a significant impact on Indian football.

3. Animesh Kujur – Athletics (Running)

Animesh Kujur – Athletics (Running)

Animesh Kujur is making strides in Indian athletics. In April 2025, he broke the national record in the men's 200m sprint, clocking in at 20.40 seconds during the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition in Kochi. This remarkable feat positioned him as the Asian season leader and secured him a place in the Asian Athletics Championships, marking him as one of India's fastest-rising sprinting talents.

4. Jyoshna Sabar – Weightlifting

Jyoshna Sabar – Weightlifting

Jyoshna Sabar is a rapidly rising weightlifter from Odisha. She has garnered medals at both the Youth World Weightlifting Championships and the Asian Youth Championships, even setting an Asian Youth Record in her category. Sabar's outstanding performances have positioned her as one of the most promising young weightlifters in the country and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in Odisha.

5. Tanvi Patri – Badminton

Tanvi Patri – Badminton

Tanvi Patri is gaining recognition in the badminton arena. She clinched the women's singles title at the 2024 Asian U-15 Badminton Championships, becoming only the third Indian to achieve this milestone. Her accomplishments at the junior level have thrust her into the national spotlight, and she is widely viewed as a promising future star in Indian badminton.

Conclusion

This overview highlights just a few of the many gifted young athletes emerging from Odisha. Their accomplishments reflect the state's enduring sporting spirit and the unwavering support from its community and government.

Note

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Many other talented athletes from Odisha also deserve recognition. The names mentioned are presented in no particular order.

Acknowledgment

PNN