In a landmark move for sports in Chhattisgarh, the state government has awarded ₹50 lakh to kabaddi star Sanju Devi for her outstanding contribution in helping India win the Kabaddi World Cup and Asian Championship. It is the highest incentive ever given by the state to an athlete.
Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao handed over the cheque to Sanju during a felicitation ceremony held at his residence office in Nava Raipur. On the occasion, a kabaddi mat was also presented to Bilaspur’s Chingrajpara Kabaddi Club.
Star of India’s World Cup Triumph
Sanju Devi emerged as one of the biggest heroes of India’s Kabaddi World Cup campaign held in Bangladesh last year. She was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament after delivering match-winning performances throughout the competition.
In the final, India scored 35 points, out of which Sanju alone contributed 16 points, playing a decisive role in securing the title. Her impact was equally crucial in the semi-final and earlier matches, where she consistently delivered under pressure.
First International Kabaddi Player from Chhattisgarh
Sanju has created history by becoming the first kabaddi player from Chhattisgarh to represent India at the international level. Along with the World Cup victory, she was also part of the Indian team that won the Asian Kabaddi Championship in Iran in March 2025.
The 23-year-old athlete hails from Kerakachhar village in Korba district and comes from a humble labourer family. Despite financial hardships, she rose through determination and hard work.
She has been training since July 2023 at the Residential Girls Kabaddi Academy in Bahatarai, Bilaspur, operated by the state’s Sports and Youth Welfare Department.
Government Committed to Supporting Talent
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated Sanju on her remarkable achievements and said the state government is fully committed to promoting talented athletes and giving them every possible platform to succeed.
He said daughters of Chhattisgarh are making history at national and international levels, and Sanju’s journey is a shining example for the youth.
Deputy CM Arun Sao said the government has been continuously working to strengthen sports infrastructure and encourage players across the state. He added that when such talented athletes bring pride to the nation, it becomes the government’s responsibility to support and reward them.
Journey of Determination and Discipline
Sanju’s rise from a small village to the world stage is a story of passion, discipline, mental strength, and perseverance. She believes success at the highest level requires staying mentally strong and overcoming one challenge at a time.
Her achievements are expected to inspire many young athletes, especially girls, to dream big and pursue careers in sports.
Earned Place Through Consistent Performances
Before making it to the Indian team, Sanju impressed in several university and national tournaments, representing Bilaspur University and Chhattisgarh in events held across Kolkata, Bathinda, Visakhapatnam, Tamil Nadu, Nagpur, Mahasamund, and Maharashtra.
Her consistent performances in selection trials organized by the Chhattisgarh Kabaddi Association earned her a place in the India camp. From there, she went on to represent the nation in both the Asian Championship and the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup.
Sanju Devi’s success marks a proud moment not only for Chhattisgarh but for Indian sports as a whole.
