THE KING OF POOL

Nurturing talent is a journey fraught with challenges, more so when it involves the sacrifices of a single mother. In India, there are countless inspiring stories of mothers who have gone above and beyond to shape their children into international athletes. Among these remarkable women stands VJ Shantymol, a former international athlete who defied the odds to guide her son, Olympian swimmer Sajan Prakash, to unparalleled heights in the world of competitive swimming.

- MILIND DHAMDHERE

Sajan Prakash-a name synonymous with excellence in Indian swimming-made history as the first Indian swimmer to compete in two consecutive Olympic Games. Renowned for his consistent record-breaking performances, Sajan has amassed numerous medals at both national and international competitions. His uncanny ability to set new benchmarks in the pool has earned him the moniker 'The King of Pool.' The Government of India recognised his exceptional career by bestowing upon him the prestigious Arjuna Award, further cementing his legacy.

Shantymol's journey as a mother and mentor stands as a testament to unwavering determination and selflessness. An accomplished athlete in her own right, she represented India at Asian and World Junior-level competitions, excelling in short-distance sprints like the 100 and 200 metres. A dominant force in inter-university championships, she claimed five gold medals and inspired many. Despite her own achievements, Shantymol never imposed her athletic aspirations on Sajan. Instead, she chose to nurture his natural inclinations, giving him the freedom to explore his potential in swimming-a decision that proved transformative.

Hailing from Idukki, a picturesque district in Kerala, Sajan showed an affinity for sports from an early age.