Gaurii comes from an orthodox family where girls are traditionally married off at a very young age. However, her parents believed in education and ensured that she completed her studies. Later, she pursued an MBA and also joined her father's business, which helped her become financially independent and shaped her entrepreneurial mindset.

Sharing her experience at the competition, Gaurii says, "Representing India on an international platform and winning four medals was an unforgettable experience. In a country where sports other than cricket often don't receive the same level of attention, facilities, or recognition, achieving success becomes even more meaningful. The most emotional moment was standing on the podium and hearing the national anthem play. The goosebumps and pride that come with representing your country cannot be explained in words. It is a feeling every athlete dreams of experiencing."

When asked about her fitness journey, she says, "My fitness journey started when I was in Class 12. I had gained a lot of weight and decided to join a gym to get fit. During my training, my coach noticed that I had natural strength and could lift heavier weights than most beginners. He suggested that I try powerlifting. I participated in a competition, won, and became addicted to the feeling of success. From that point onward, powerlifting became my passion and eventually my profession."

Gaurii also shares how her family's support has helped her. "My family's support has been one of the biggest reasons behind my success. Coming from a conservative background, it wasn't easy to pursue sports, but my parents always stood by me. They encouraged me to study, supported my decisions, and gradually became my strongest pillars throughout my journey."

Born and raised in Jaipur, Nandini Sindhi, a proud member of the transgender community, has become an inspiring symbol of courage, determination, and sporting excellence. Her life—marked by hardship, discrimination, and relentless struggle—has transformed into a story of resilience after she won multiple medals in Ice Stock Sport, including the prestigious National Gold Medal in 2025.

Nandini’s early life was filled with challenges. She lost both her parents at a very young age, leaving her responsible for supporting her entire family. While other children enjoyed carefree lives, she carried emotional and financial burdens far beyond her age. Growing up as a transgender child in a conservative society, she faced taunts, humiliation, exclusion, and discrimination. She was denied dignity, denied acceptance, and even denied employment opportunities simply because of her gender identity. With no support and no job prospects, she was forced to beg on trains just to survive.

During one of her most difficult phases, a member of the transgender community helped her understand the realities of society and the importance of inner strength. She later found shelter through Garima Greh NGO, but when the center shut down unexpectedly, she again faced uncertainty. Eventually, she joined the broader transgender community, yet the discrimination did not stop.

Determined to create a life of dignity for herself and others, Nandini began taking care of displaced transgender children and youth through the space earlier managed by Garima Greh’s Sartar Home. During this time, she met Msk Pankaj, a mentor from Garima Greh who played a crucial role in transforming her life. He introduced her to dance training and continued to guide her with genuine care.

Nandini recalls this turning point with deep gratitude:

“It was Msk Pankaj Sir who first told us about Ice Stock and took us to learn it. We all first met at the Garima Greh shelter home, where he used to train children for free in dance, singing, and other activities. Later, he called Manish Sir to teach us this sport and spoke to the Ice Stock Director to waive our fees. He gave us a chance to move forward and requested the association to support us. I thank him from my heart—no one does this much for transgender people.”

— Transgender athlete Nandini Sindhi

Through this support system, Nandini met Ice Stock Director Sakshi Sharma and coaches Sameer and Manish Bhati, who believed in her potential. Their guidance became the bridge between her struggles and her rising sports career.

Her journey in Ice Stock Sport began in 2024 when she won a Silver Medal at the District Championship. She soon advanced to the State Championship, winning Gold, and later competed in the 11th National Ice Stock Championship 2025 in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, where she secured Silver and Bronze among participants from 22 states.

But Nandini’s dream was clear—she wanted national gold.

On 12 August 2025, at an Ice Stock State Championship hosted by Vivekananda Global University, she achieved two Gold Medals. With renewed confidence, she competed in the Samar Stock National Championship 2025 in Agra, where athletes from 14 states participated. In a tough final match against Gujarat, Nandini and her team secured a spectacular victory by 8 points, finally winning the National Gold Medal she had worked so hard for.

Today, Nandini aims to represent India on the international stage and bring home a gold medal for the country. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to the Ice Stock Association, Director Sakshi Sharma, Manish Bhati, Sameer Sir, and especially Msk Pankaj, whose support changed the direction of her life.

Nandini’s journey is a powerful reminder that resilience can overcome prejudice, and determination can break every barrier. Her story serves as an inspiration for every individual who dares to rise above society’s limitations and fight for their dreams.

Jaipur, September 17, 2025: Dabang Delhi K.C. continued their brilliant run in the PKL Season 12 as they clinched their sixth straight win against Telugu Titans at SMS Indoor Stadium, Jaipur on Wednesday. After trailing by five points in the first half, it was Neeraj Narwal who came to the fore with nine points, while he was ably supported by High Fives from Saurabh Nandal and Fazel Atrachali.

The Telugu Titans opened the scoring with a successful raid from Vijay Malik, giving them an early lead. They quickly built on this momentum as Shubham Shinde executed a solid tackle to make it 2-0. The Titans maintained their dominance, with Bharat picking up a raid point and then following it up with a strong tackle to send Ashu Malik to the bench, pushing their lead to 4-0.

Dabang Delhi finally opened their account through a well-timed tackle by Surjeet Singh in a do-or-die raid. Soon after, Manjeet delivered a successful raid, cutting the deficit to 5-2. However, Neeraj Narwal earned a point for his side and revived the Dabang Delhi captain, reducing the gap to 5-3. 

After a slow start, Dabang Delhi gradually found their rhythm and closed the deficit further, bringing the score to 5-4 by the time the first time-out was taken in the opening half.

The Telugu Titans resumed the game strongly, collecting a couple of quick points to stretch their advantage. Their defence continued to hold firm, once again stopping Ashu Malik and sending him to the bench, which extended their lead to 8-4 with just over six minutes left in the first half.

The Titans’ defensive unit maintained their intensity for the remainder of the half, consistently shutting down Dabang Delhi’s raiders. Their solid all-round effort helped them go into halftime with a 14-9 lead, firmly in control of the contest.

Dabang Delhi mounted a strong comeback in the second half, sparked by a brilliant Super Raid from Neeraj Narwal, who looked in terrific touch, earned them three points and cut the deficit to 14-15.

However, Telugu Titans responded quickly with a well-executed Super Tackle, regaining control and extending their lead to 19-14. Dabang Delhi then produced a big turning point by inflicting an ALL OUT, which helped them take the lead for the first time in the match at 20-19 with just over 13 minutes left on the clock. They built on this momentum with a solid tackle to push their advantage to 21-19.

With Fazel Atrachali leading the charge in defence. He pulled off several sharp tackles and completed a well-earned High Five, as the side extended their lead to 27-22 within the first four minutes of the half.

Dabang Delhi appeared to be in complete control for most of the second half, but Telugu Titans kept pushing and managed to close the gap to just three points in the final three minutes of play. However, Delhi’s all-round performance ensured they didn’t lose their grip on the match. 

The Titans stayed in the fight as Shubham Shinde produced a crucial tackle to make it 27-30, followed by a successful raid from Praful Zaware that brought the score to 28-30. With just over 40 seconds left, only two points separated the two sides.

But Akshit stepped up for Dabang Delhi with a decisive Super Raid that pushed their lead to 33-28, effectively sealing the contest. The Titans managed to pick up one more point, but the season 8 winners held on to secure a 33-29 win.

Please find below the schedule for the PKL Season 12 matches on Thursday, September 18:

Match 1: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Bengal Warriorz

Match 2: U Mumba vs Puneri Paltan

Tickets are available on District by Zomato, the official ticketing platform for PKL Season 12: https://www.district.in/events/pkl-2025-jaipur-team

For all updates on the Pro Kabaddi league, log on to www.prokabaddi.com, download the Official Pro Kabaddi app or follow @prokabaddi on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and X.

The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 is being broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar from 7:30 pm onwards.

From Gujarat to Glory: A Journey Forged in Dedication

Hailing from the culturally rich state of Gujarat and armed with a Master’s in Arts and B.Ed. from Saurashtra University, Rita’s journey has been anything but conventional. What began as a childhood passion for hockey has now become a trailblazing career. Relocating to London, she embraced a competitive sporting environment dominated by European athletes. Yet, in just two seasons at Burnt Ash (Bexley), her tireless efforts and dazzling performance, particularly her expertise in drag flicks, helped her outshine seasoned players from across the continent.

“This award represents not just success, but resilience,” Rita said in an emotional reflection. “Every practice session, every bruised knee, and every defeat only sharpened my resolve to rise stronger.” Her humility belies her impact. As the only Indian woman competing in the current English hockey circuit, Rita carries both her identity and her skillset with pride, frequently facing off against top-tier English teams.

A Family Affair: Support as the Cornerstone of Success

Behind Rita’s historic win is an equally inspiring story of support and encouragement. She credits her success to the unwavering backing of her family and husband, who have cheered her through every sprint, flick, and fall.

“There were days I doubted myself, but never once did they stop believing in me. This recognition is theirs as much as it is mine,” she said, her voice tinged with gratitude.

Her story is particularly relevant for young Indian athletes, especially women, who often battle cultural constraints in addition to competitive ones. Rita’s win is not just a trophy; it’s a statement.

Beyond Hockey: Mastering the Cricket Pitch

Rita is not content with mastering just one sport. During the 2023-2024 cricket season, she debuted with the Orpington Ocelots Cricket Club and made her mark as a promising all-rounder. This year, she joined Sidcup Cricket Club during the UK’s popular Cricket Festival. Her bowling tactics disrupted opponents, and a standout run-out moment earned her team the “champagne moment”, a term reserved for match-defining performances.

Whether with a stick or a bat, Rita’s athleticism is undeniable. Her dual-sport success story amplifies her reputation as a rising star in the UK’s sporting landscape and as a proud ambassador of Indian sporting talent abroad.

A Win for India, a Win for Women

Rita’s triumph speaks volumes in the era of globalised sports, where boundaries fade and performance shines. She not only carries the Indian flag on foreign soil but also redefines what it means to be a modern Indian woman athlete, confident, skilled, and fiercely proud of her roots.

Her achievements are also a timely reminder of the talent pool India possesses, waiting for recognition and opportunity. “Young girls back home should know that dreams don’t recognise geography,” she remarked. “With enough fire in the belly, you can make it anywhere.”

Celebrating an Emerging Icon

As Rita prepares for the next season with renewed energy, fans and fellow athletes alike eagerly await her continued ascent. Whether it’s defending on turf or launching a delivery down the cricket pitch, she embodies an exciting, multifaceted athlete who represents the best of what India has to offer to the world.

In an era where headlines often focus on glamour or controversy, Rita Patel’s story brings back focus to what matters: talent, commitment, and the quiet confidence of a woman who lets her performance do the talking.

And as she continues her sporting journey, one thing is certain: Gujarat’s daughter is just getting started.

Disclaimer: Only the headline of this story has been edited by our team. The content remains auto-generated from a syndicated feed provided by a News agency. Any legal liability associated with the content rests solely with the News agency.

The women’s league shall take place from 16th May to 4thJune, 2025 and the men’s will commence from 4th June with the finale taking place on Saturday, 21st June 2025.

Mr. Snehasish Ganguly, President of the Cricket Association of Bengal, shared his excitement, “The Bengal Pro T20 League has become a key feature in our domestic calendar. With the continued support of our esteemed Franchises, we are confident that Season 2 will build on the momentum and provide a world-class experience for players and fans alike.”

The Bengal Pro T20 League, a flagship domestic T20 tournament, aims to unearth and promote top cricketing talent from Bengal, offering a dynamic platform for emerging players to shine on a professional stage. The League shall continue to break new ground by featuring 8 men’s and 8 women’s franchise teams, making it the only league of its kind in the world to run parallel men’s and women’s franchise competitions at this scale. The format not only promotes gender inclusivity but also offers a robust platform for emerging talent across Bengal to showcase their skills in a professional and competitive environment.

Lux Shyam Kolkata Tigers, Sobisco Smashers Malda, Murshidabad Kings/Kueens, Rashmi Medinipur Wizards, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Harbour Diamonds and Adamas Howrah Warriors are the eight teams of the League representing the different districts of Bengal. Last season the men’s title was jointly won by Sobisco Smashers Malda and Murshidabad Kings while in the women’s Lux Shyam Kolkata Tigers had emerged as Champions.

Arivaa Sports, the management partners of the League, shall aim to make the tournament more successful, glamorous and competitive this season too.

With increased fanfare, expanded digital coverage, and a strong focus on player development and grassroots scouting, Season 2 promises to be a landmark chapter in Bengal’s cricketing journey.

Players Draft dates, fixtures and other details shall be subsequently shared by the Association in due course of time.

The core idea behind the Creators Cricket League is to offer a common space for influencers to connect, network, and socialise, all while promoting a healthy lifestyle. In an age where digital creators play a vital role in shaping opinions and trends, this event aims to utilise their reach to spread awareness about fitness, wellness, and community building.

What makes this event truly unique is the concept itself — for the first time in Jaipur, social media creators will be seen not just behind their phone screens, but on the cricket field, showcasing their athletic side. The format of the league will include friendly matches between creator teams, and the entire three-day extravaganza promises high-energy performances, engaging cricket action, and vibrant networking opportunities.

“This is more than just a cricket league — it’s a celebration of the influencer community and a push towards building a healthier, more connected society,” said one of the organisers from Rara Sports and Entertainment.

With Atlanture Sports bringing its sporting expertise to the table, and Jaipur’s creator community buzzing with excitement, the event is expected to draw a large audience — both online and offline. Fans and followers will be able to witness their favourite influencers stepping out of their usual digital personas and into a team spirit-driven sports arena.

The Kigo Match Creators Cricket League is not just a sporting event, but a powerful message that combines wellness, entertainment, and digital influence in a fresh and impactful way.

Official Partners for the Event:

• Title Partner: Kigo Match

• Media Partner: Sangri Internet

• Health Partner: Impact Physiotherapy

• Supported By: Starrd

• Trophy Partner: Golden Divine

• Venue Partner: Infinity Club

• Outdoor Partner: NS Publicity

• Beverage Partner: Coffeekaart

• Food Partner: Arham Cafe

• Associate Partner: Aavas Buildcom

New Delhi [India], January 13: Ryna – Taste of Nature, a renowned brand in the FMCG beverage industry, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Polish Kho Kho Team for the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 in India. This partnership underscores Ryna’s commitment to promoting health, vitality, and the spirit of sportsmanship on an international stage.

The Kho Kho World Cup 2025, set to take place in India, will bring together top teams from around the world to compete in this dynamic and traditional Indian sport. As an official sponsor, Ryna will provide the Polish team with its range of nourishing beverages, including sparkling drinks, aloe vera juices, and fruit juices, ensuring the players stay hydrated and energized throughout the tournament.

“We are excited to support the Polish Kho Kho Team in their journey to the World Cup,” a spokesperson for Ryna shared. “This collaboration reflects our mission to encourage healthy lifestyles and support athletes who demonstrate dedication and teamwork. Our beverages are designed to fuel their performance and keep them at their best during the competition.”

The Polish Kho Kho Team is preparing rigorously for the tournament and is determined to make a mark against some of the best teams in the world. With Ryna’s support, the team is confident in its ability to deliver an outstanding performance.

Ryna – Taste of Nature is honored to be part of this prestigious global event and looks forward to cheering on the Polish Kho Kho Team at the World Cup 2025.

About Ryna – Taste of Nature

Ryna – Taste of Nature offers a wide variety of refreshing beverages crafted from premium natural ingredients. The brand is dedicated to promoting wellness and active lifestyles through its high-quality products.

For more information, visit:  https://rynajuice.com.

If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

Disclaimer: Only the headline of this story has been edited by our team. The content remains auto-generated from a syndicated feed provided by a News agency. Any legal liability associated with the content rests solely with the News agency.