Faith of the fearless

Nikhat Zareen wants better than bronze, but being unseeded in the 50kg category could make her path tricky

NIKHAT ZAREEN

AGE: 28 WORLD CHAMPION (2022, 2023) ASIAN GAMES BRONZE (2023)

As per the Indian orthodoxy, disrespect for elders is a transgression of the highest order. The extent of the backlash for this grave offence grows in proportion to the reputation of the senior. Having questioned the supremacy of India's single most celebrated boxer ever, Nikhat Zareen knew it was going to be tough. However, like many successful sportswomen in India, she was armed with the experience of battling patriarchy. Zareen was ready.

Her ask was a fair trial ahead of Tokyo 2020. It was too precious an opportunity. She could not afford to be coy just because six-time world champion Mary Kom was in her division. She got the opportunity, but lost to Kom in the trial. The legend also refused a handshake after the bout. Zareen left the arena in tears. The online trolls pounced. But, the name-calling did not last long.