Recently, in a heartfelt ceremony in Bhopal, three remarkable blind women cricketers from Madhya Pradesh, Sunita Sarathe, Durga Yewale, and Sushma Patel, were celebrated for their exceptional achievements in Indian cricket. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav presented them with a cash reward of ₹25 lakh each, 10 lakh in cash and the remaining as fixed deposit, recognizing their role in India’s triumph at the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup.
This event was much more than just the money or the official accolades. It symbolised the culmination of years of hard work, determination, and the relentless spirit that these athletes embody.
Each of them hails from different parts of Madhya Pradesh: Sunita from Narmadapuram, Durga from Betul, and Sushma from Damoh, and together, they carried with them the aspirations of countless visually impaired athletes across the nation. Their historic victory in Colombo, where they triumphed over Nepal after defeating Australia in the semi-finals, marked a significant milestone in Indian sports history.
The atmosphere on that memorable Saturday was filled with pride and gratitude. Families beamed with joy, coaches stood alongside their champions, and officials offered enthusiastic applause. However, for Sunita, Durga, and Sushma, it was the culmination of personal struggles faced in silence. Besides the cash prizes, they were also honoured with mementoes, traditional angavastrams, and sports kits, all of which symbolised both acknowledgement of their achievements and encouragement for future endeavours.
The coaches, Sonu Golkar, Om Prakash Pal, and Deepak Pahade, were also rewarded with ₹1 Lakh each, highlighting the vital role of mentorship in shaping these champions. What really struck a chord was the broader message their success conveys. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took a moment to congratulate the team, praising their courage and perseverance, words that resonate deeply with aspiring athletes watching from their homes.
Blind cricket is unique, relying heavily on sound. A special ball containing ball bearings produces a distinct noise that helps players track it. Yet, the hurdles faced by these athletes go well beyond the cricket field, including challenges related to access to coaching and societal perceptions of the capabilities of differently abled individuals. In this landscape, Sunita, Durga, and Sushma have become agents of change.
Their journeys remind us that sports are more than just games; they are about resilience, joy, and the belief that disability does not define limits. The cheers in Bhopal were powerful, but the true applause lies in the inner conviction that they have reshaped the narrative surrounding their sport.
Beyond the celebration, the government’s recognition aims to inspire a broader movement, encouraging differently abled athletes across India to pursue their dreams fiercely. As these champions return to their communities, their influence will extend beyond medals; it will be measured by the hope they kindle in others. India’s blind women cricketers have demonstrated that true victory lies in transforming latent potential into a legacy that will inspire future generations.
Loves all things female cricket