New Delhi, March 7 – On the occasion of International Women's Day, celebrated wrestler and Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik shared her thoughts in an interview with news agency IANS. She highlighted not only her personal experiences but also the evolving societal landscape and the growing role of women. She expressed her belief that the struggles and contributions of women should not be confined to just one day of celebration.
As per agency reports, Sakshi asserted that women should not be honored solely on March 8, the designated International Women’s Day. Instead, she believes that every day should be a celebration of women. Reflecting on her own life, she shared how women face multiple challenges throughout their journey, overcoming obstacles at every stage.
Recalling her early years in wrestling, Sakshi described how she had to train with minimal resources. Despite these hardships, she not only built a successful career but also balanced her responsibilities as a mother. She emphasized that mothers juggle multiple roles simultaneously, and their efforts deserve daily recognition, not just on a specific occasion.
Speaking about societal changes, Sakshi noted that in Haryana, there was once a stark difference in how boys and girls were treated. However, she has witnessed significant progress over the years. She credited her success in wrestling as a catalyst for shifting societal perceptions, inspiring many parents to encourage their daughters to pursue sports. She pointed to the achievements of athletes like Manu Bhaker, who made history in the Olympics, as a testament to the fact that girls are capable of excelling in any field.
Sakshi strongly believes that a woman determined to achieve her goals, with focus and discipline, can accomplish anything. She also acknowledged the unique challenges faced by female athletes. She remarked that a woman's sports career is often shorter due to various factors, requiring careful planning and decision-making. Encouraging young women, she urged them to perform fearlessly and give their best, regardless of the obstacles they encounter.
Reflecting on her own journey, Sakshi acknowledged that she and other athletes had to stand up against injustice, fight for their rights, and even lead protests when necessary. She encouraged all women, irrespective of their field, to continue working hard and contributing to the country in meaningful ways.
Though she has retired from wrestling, Sakshi remains committed to the sport. She expressed her desire to train young athletes while also focusing on her newborn daughter and maintaining her fitness. Offering advice to aspiring female athletes, she emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and working towards them with honesty and dedication, assuring that success would follow.
