Mary Kom is a shining jewel in India’s Sports history. With her determination, zeal, resilience and perseverance, she stands out not just for her athletic achievement, but has also won a place in every Indian’s heart. Mary Kom, an Indian boxer, is one such legend whose life story is nothing short of inspirational. Born on March 1, 1982, in Manipur, India, Mary Kom jumped the boundaries of social constraints to become a global inspiration and an icon in the world of boxing and sports.
Mary Kom Early Life and Age
Mary Kom, whose birth name is Chungneijang Mary Kom Hmangte, grew up in Kangathei, a small village in Manipur. She was born on March 1, 1982 and is currently 41 years old. Coming from a humble background, her early life was marked by financial struggles. The region she hailed from was not particularly known for producing world-class athletes, especially in a sport as unconventional as boxing. However, Mary Kom’s journey into the realm of sports began at an early age.
Motivated by her father, who was an amateur wrestler, Mary Kom initially tried her hand at athletics and later moved on to boxing. It was not a conventional choice for a young girl in Manipur during that time, but Mary Kom was undeterred by societal norms and conventions. Her determination and passion for the sport quickly became apparent, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Mary Kom Career
Mary Kom’s breakthrough in Indian boxing came when she won the Manipur state boxing championship in 2000. This victory marked the beginning of a series of triumphs that would shape her career and eventually make her a household name in India. Subsequently, she won the national championship, establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in the Indian boxing circuit.
Her prowess in the ring earned her a spot in the national boxing team, and she went on to represent India in various international competitions. The turning point in her career came in 2001 when she won a silver medal at the Women’s World Amateur Boxing Championships in Scranton, USA. This marked the first of many international accolades that Mary Kom would go on to achieve.
But the legendary Indian boxer, is officially retired from boxing. This decision comes as per the rules of the International Boxing Association (IBA), which allow both male and female boxers to participate in elite-level competitions only until the age of 40.
At the age of 41, Mary Kom shared during an event that she still feels the desire to compete at the highest level. However, she acknowledged that she has to end her boxing career due to the age limit set by the IBA.
Mary Kom Achievements
One of the crowning achievements in any athlete’s career is representing their country at the Olympic Games. For Mary Kom, this dream became a reality when women’s boxing was included in the Olympic program for the first time at the 2012 London Olympics. Competing in the flyweight category, Mary Kom showcased her skill and determination, reaching the finals and securing a historic bronze medal. This achievement not only made her the first Indian woman boxer to win an Olympic medal but also solidified her status as a trailblazer in Indian sports.
However, Mary Kom’s Olympic journey did not end there. In the 2016 Rio Olympics, she once again qualified and defied expectations by reaching the quarterfinals. Although she missed out on another medal, her participation at the highest level of the sport for two consecutive Olympics is a testament to her enduring commitment and competitive spirit.
Beyond her achievements in the boxing ring, Mary Kom has been actively involved in philanthropy and social causes. She has used her platform to advocate for the well-being of women and children in India. Mary Kom has been vocal about issues such as gender equality and the importance of sports in empowering individuals, especially women, in society.
In addition to her contributions to sports and social causes, Mary Kom has also ventured into politics. In 2016, she was nominated as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s Parliament. Her foray into politics is another example of her commitment to creating positive change in society beyond the realm of sports.
Mary Kom Family
Mary Kom’s life has not been devoid of personal challenges. Balancing the demands of a rigorous training schedule with family responsibilities is no easy feat. She took a hiatus from boxing after the birth of her twins in 2007 but made a stunning comeback in 2008. Her ability to overcome personal challenges and return to the ring at the highest level speaks volumes about her mental fortitude and dedication.
Mary Kom’s impact on Indian sports and boxing, in particular, cannot be overstated. Her achievements have not only inspired a generation of young athletes but have also shattered stereotypes about women in sports. The accolades and honors bestowed upon her are numerous, including the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna.
Internationally, Mary Kom is regarded as a living legend in boxing. Her name is synonymous with excellence, and her journey from a small village in Manipur to the global stage is celebrated worldwide. The International Boxing Association (AIBA) has recognized her as one of the greatest female boxers of all time.
Mary Kom’s life story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and passion. From a small village in Manipur to the Olympic podium, she has overcome numerous hurdles to etch her name in the annals of sports history. Mary Kom’s journey is an inspiration not only for aspiring athletes but for anyone facing challenges and obstacles in life.
As Mary Kom continues to inspire, her legacy goes beyond the medals and titles she has won. It is a legacy of breaking barriers, challenging norms, and proving that with unwavering dedication, one can overcome any obstacle. Mary Kom’s life story is a beacon of hope and a reminder that true champions are not just defined by their victories but by the indomitable spirit that propels them forward, against all odds.