By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: It is often said that talent transcends adverse circumstances, and when spirits are high, no destination is too far. The Indian women’s team exemplified this by clinching the title at the Kho-Kho World Cup held in Delhi. Led by Monica Sah, a vegetable seller and daughter of Bhagalpur, the team triumphed in the final match, becoming world champions. Monica’s remarkable achievement has made not just Bhagalpur, but the entire nation proud.
Monica Sah, daughter of Binod Sah, hails from Dimha village in the Gopalpur block of Navgachiya subdivision, Bhagalpur. Her family lives in a modest mud-and-tile house and struggles with severe financial constraints. Her father, Binod, occasionally drives a rickshaw or sells vegetables to support the family. Despite their hardships, Binod expressed immense joy over the Indian team’s victory and Monica’s stellar performance.
Emerging from her humble background, Monica has elevated Bihar’s reputation on both national and international stages. However, the Bihar government has yet to acknowledge her accomplishments. Among five siblings, Monica was determined to pursue a career in sports from an early age. Despite their difficult circumstances, her father never discouraged her dreams and consistently supported her aspirations.
“Monica has been passionate about sports since she was in Year 6,” said her father, Binod Sah. “Initially, we encouraged her to focus on studies, thinking it was the only way forward. But she was determined to pursue sports. Today, she is a world champion. We could not believe it when we saw our daughter achieve this incredible feat.”
Monica’s mother, Jura Devi, shared that there was a time when Monica did not even have proper shoes for playing. “Our financial condition is dire,” she said. “I still cook on a wood stove as we have not received benefits from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana or the Ujjwala Yojana. Despite this, Monica worked hard and remained dedicated to her sport. She has made us all proud.”
The final match of the Kho-Kho World Cup took place in Delhi on the night of 19 January. The Indian team emerged victorious by defeating Nepal. Monica, donning jersey number 11, played a pivotal role, scoring six points in the match and leading the team to victory. Her performance throughout the tournament, which began on 13 January, was exemplary.
Monica’s journey from a mud house to the world stage is an inspiring story of perseverance, talent, and grit.