Savita Punia Honors Daughters with Padma Shri Dedication

Savita Punia's Inspiring Journey

Renowned Indian hockey player Savita Punia has dedicated her Padma Shri award to daughters across India, describing it as a recognition for every girl in the country. The 35-year-old athlete is set to receive the prestigious civilian honor from President Droupadi Murmu on June 23 at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. Fresh from her contribution to India's victory in the FIH Nations Cup, Savita reflected on her journey during an exclusive interview. She shared that her initial lack of confidence was transformed through hockey, stating, "This is a significant moment for me and my family. Awards like these remind us of our journey. Looking back 20 years, I see how far I've come, and it's all thanks to hockey and my family. Being a girl motivates me to encourage others to support their daughters. I lacked confidence, but hockey and my family empowered me to pursue my dreams. These awards symbolize hope for all daughters."

Embracing Responsibility as a Role Model

'Family Used To Look At Mary Kom'

As a prominent female athlete, Savita acknowledges her role in inspiring young girls. She mentioned how her family drew confidence from the achievements of boxer Mary Kom, which encouraged her to pursue sports. "It’s a significant responsibility. My family has always supported me, and I strive to honor that trust. Achieving such recognition means I must serve as a role model, motivating others to excel in any field, especially hockey. Parents are encouraged to support their daughters when they see successful figures like Mary Kom. My journey opens doors for other girls to follow their dreams," Savita expressed.

The Significance of the National Anthem

'National Anthem Feels More Special Over Time'

Discussing the emotional weight of the national anthem, Savita shared that its significance grows with experience. "The feeling of hearing the anthem never fades. With time, you understand the sacrifices and dedication behind it. Initially, the emotions are overwhelming, but as you gain experience, the responsibility deepens. I remind my younger teammates that in ten years, they will appreciate this moment even more," she explained.

Family's Joy and Future Celebrations

'Family More Happier Than Me'

Savita expressed that her family is even more thrilled about her award than she is. "Coming from a middle-class background, it’s a dream for my parents to attend such an event for me. I’m overjoyed for them," she said. Following India's triumph in the FIH Nations Cup, Savita mentioned that the team is looking forward to celebrating both her award and their recent victory. "We are excited for the celebrations. Winning the tournament and receiving this award makes it a double celebration for us. Everyone is encouraging me to enjoy the ceremony, and we are ready to party," Savita concluded.