Boxing Stars Bharti and Devika Triumph Amidst Diverse Backgrounds at KIUG 2025

At the 2025 Khelo India University Games, Bharti and Devika Satyajit Ghorpade showcased their boxing prowess despite vastly different socio-economic backgrounds. Bharti, from a humble upbringing, secured a silver medal, while Devika, from a more affluent environment, clinched gold. Their journeys highlight determination and the need for better support for emerging athletes.

In a clash of aspirations and societal standings, Bharti and Devika Satyajit Ghorpade showcased their indomitable spirit at the 2025 Khelo India University Games in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. Representing Maharshi Dayanand University, Haryana, Bharti fought her way to a silver in the women's minimum category (45-48kg), while Devika, from Savitribai Phule Pune University, Maharashtra, convincingly clinched gold in the women's flyweight 52kg.

Despite their differing socio-economic backgrounds, both athletes overcame significant adversities. Bharti, 23, comes from a family of humble means, with her father employed at a brick factory. Devika, aged 20, grew up in relative comfort, but chose boxing over a potentially easy life, initially inspired by the Rio Olympics.

Devika's dream was fueled by an article on Olympian Manoj Pingale, while Bharti was inspired by her cousin Monika, a successful athlete. Both acknowledge the Khelo India platform's role in easing their journeys. Bharti, a 2019 Youth National gold winner, emphasizes the need for more support at the grassroots level, a sentiment echoed by Devika, who now sets her sights on international competitions.

(With inputs from agencies.)