Tag: Sports History

Sports

Trailblazing Legends Set to Shine at She Paddle 2025 – India’s First International Masters Women’s TT Tournament in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

From September 5th to 7th, 2025, the scenic Aralia Beach Resort in Morjim, Goa, will become the epicentre of a historic sporting moment as India hosts She Paddle 2025 – the country’s first-ever International Masters Women’s Table Tennis Tournament.

This groundbreaking event brings together some of the most decorated names in Indian and global table tennis:

  • 🏆 Mantu Murmur – Reigning World Champion in the 60+ category
  • 🥇 Rita Jain – Commonwealth Games Medalist, National & Masters Champion
  • 🥈 Mangal Saraf – World Championship Silver Medalist & 8-time Masters National Champion

With participation expected from 50 to 100 players across India and abroad (including representation from Romania 🇷🇴), She Paddle 2025 offers a total prize purse of ₹1.25 lakhs, prestigious trophies, and team as well as individual competitions across 40+, 50+, and 60+ categories.

More than just a tournament, She Paddle is a movement – a powerful celebration of women’s sporting journeys and the undying spirit of athleticism, regardless of age.

A Historic Literary Launch – Smash Her Story

The tournament finale will witness the global unveiling of Smash Her Story – a first-of-its-kind book documenting the stories of 32 Indian Women National Champions from 1947 to 2024. Authored by Shamik Chakrabarty and Dileep Premachandran, and endorsed by ITTF President Petra Sörling, the book was conceptualised under the guidance of Boria Majumder.

The event has been co-created by sporting stalwarts and champions themselves:

  • Moonmoon Mukherjee – Former TT International, Founder of P3 Sports
  • Deepa Jain – Masters Champion, Designer & Co-Founder, Champion Charms
  • Shilpa Joshi Takalkar – Former International & Award-winning Champion
  • Deepak Gopani – Founder Secretary, Goa Veterans TT Association

Dignitaries & Guests

The tournament will also host renowned figures including:

  • Kamlesh Mehta – 8-time National Champion, Arjuna Awardee
  • Pooja Bedi – Actor & Wellness Coach
  • Dr. Geeta Nagvenkar – Executive Director, Sports Authority of India
  • Niraj Bajaj – Chairman, Bajaj Group (Event Sponsor)
  • Goa TTA Officials and State Government dignitaries

With the announcement that She Paddle 2026 will be hosted in Bucharest, Romania, the event takes its place on the global sporting calendar, amplifying India’s growing presence in Masters-level sports.

“It’s not just a tournament; it’s a tribute to passion, perseverance, and pride,” said Moonmoon Mukherjee, one of the visionaries behind She Paddle.

For sports lovers, fans of table tennis, and advocates of women’s empowerment, She Paddle 2025 is a must-watch moment in Indian sporting history.

Sports

Koneru Humpy Scripts History at FIDE Women’s World Cup, Becomes First Indian Woman in Semi-Finals

allycaralgoa

In a landmark moment for Indian chess and women in sports, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has become the first Indian woman ever to enter the semi-finals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup. This remarkable achievement not only reaffirms her place among the global elite but also lights the path for aspiring female chess players across the country.

A former World Rapid Chess Champion and one of India’s most decorated players, Koneru Humpy has consistently showcased her prowess on the global stage. Her path to the semi-finals was marked by tenacity, calculated brilliance, and composed aggression—traits that have become synonymous with her game.

The FIDE Women’s World Cup, one of the most prestigious events in international chess, draws the world’s best minds. Humpy’s performance so far underscores India’s rising prominence in chess and continues a legacy pioneered by legends like Viswanathan Anand.

This accomplishment is more than just a tournament milestone—it’s a testament to women’s growing strength in competitive chess, traditionally dominated by men. With each calculated move, Koneru Humpy not only wins games but also inspires a new wave of young girls to pick up the board and believe in their potential.

As she prepares for her semi-final clash, the entire nation stands behind her. Regardless of the outcome, she has already made history—and inspired history to follow.

Bravo, Grandmaster Humpy. India salutes you! 🇮🇳♟️