From Humble Beginnings to International Football: Divyani Linda's Inspiring Journey
Divyani Linda: A Rising Star in Indian Football
Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India] - The remarkable story of Divyani Linda, a young football talent from Jharkhand, captured national attention as she transitions from her humble home to representing India on global platforms. This recognition came after Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, and Ranchi MP, Sanjay Seth, visited her family to offer their support.
During their visit, Seth unveiled several initiatives aimed at assisting Divyani and her family. These included medical care for her brother, who is paralyzed, at AIIMS, plans for a new home before Durga Puja, and the establishment of football fields in her village to nurture aspiring athletes.
Referring to Divyani as the 'pride of the nation,' Seth emphasized the challenging conditions she has overcome to pursue her passion for football. He noted, 'In their modest hut, there are over 50 trophies and medals from various competitions. Her mother works as a daily wage laborer, and her father passed away four years ago. We are committed to ensuring her brother receives the necessary treatment and that Divyani can focus on her training for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics.'
Seth added, 'It is our duty to support her and her family, allowing her to concentrate on her sport and bring honor to India. We are also developing fields in her village for her and other girls to practice.' He reiterated Prime Minister Modi's vision that athletes should aim for medals, which can only be achieved with proper support.
Despite facing financial difficulties and personal loss, Divyani has made significant strides in India's youth football scene. Her father’s death and her brother's paralysis due to inadequate medical care have not deterred her ambition.
Reflecting on her football journey, Divyani shared how her love for the sport ignited in her childhood and how discipline has been crucial to her success. 'We recently participated in the Under-16 SAFF tournament, finishing as runners-up, and we won the Under-17 tournament in Bhutan. We also competed in the AFC tournament in Kyrgyzstan, qualifying for the next stage and reaching the quarter-finals in China,' she explained.
'I consider myself an all-rounder, adapting my role as needed. My passion for football has been with me since I was young, inspired by watching famous players on television. My mother was initially concerned about injuries, but I was determined. I would wake up at 4 AM to practice. Now, I am training to join the Under-19 senior team, aiming to bring glory to my country and prepare for the World Cup.'
Her mother, Pratima Devi, a daily wage laborer, expressed her pride in Divyani's achievements despite their struggles. 'She has been dedicated to football since she was a child, waking up early to play before school. I worried about her safety, but she was fearless. She has traveled to places like Russia, China, Nepal, and Bhutan for her sport. I am proud of her success, especially given our challenges, including my youngest child's paralysis and our financial struggles for his treatment.'
As support continues to pour in for Divyani, her story serves as a powerful testament to how talent and determination can flourish even in the face of adversity, provided that timely assistance reaches those who aspire to represent India on the world stage.