Sport helps smash hurdles of patriarchy & societal stigma

When Saikhom Mirabai Chanu dropped the barbell with a successful 109 kg lift, a thunderous applause roared through the hall. Chanu only stepped back gently, with her usual smile and humble 'Namaste'. Everyone was awed by the way Chanu went on to not only register India's first Gold this Commonwealth Games, but also to write a new record to her name. This is after Sanket Sargar's silver and P Gururaja's bronze, which opened India's account.

- Sachin Tendulkar

For 11 days, the entire nation was following up on this mega event with bated breath. As the curtains fell, a triumphant Indian contingent returned with one of the best performances at the Commonwealth Games with 61 medals 22 gold, 16 silver, and 23 bronze, that too without the inclusion of shooting, one of our strong points. There cannot be a better time to celebrate this victory than the month the nation is observing the 75th Independence Day as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

On the brink of victory, all athletes also resonated their stories of perseverance and agility in the face of adversity. These stories may be more challenging for women contingent, who triumphed not only the bars set by their immediate competitors, but also the bars set by society, family, and other external authorities. From Sushila Devi Likmabam, and Tulika Maan's individual silver in Judo to Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat's individual gold in wrestling; from Nitu Ghangas and Nikhat Zareen's individual gold to PV Sindhu's gold in badminton, we've seen some incredible performances this year. Our women's hockey team also clinched bronze in a nailbiting match.