Soni NAGPUR’S pride and FIDE Women’s World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh reached another major milestone in her career as the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports named her for the prestigious Arjuna Award on Tuesday. For the 20-year-old Grandmaster, it was an exceptional year who clinched the World Cup in Batumi, Georgia. Reacting to the honour, Divya’s mother, Dr Namrata Deshmukh, expressed deep happiness calling it a proud moment for the entire family. “It is a very happy and proud moment for all of us. It is a great achievement for the entire family. It has been a long journey for us —about 15 years in the making. We are very happy,” Dr Namrata said, who has been by Divya’s side through major career milestones including that WC triumph. When asked whether the national honour was anticipated, she shared that while Divya’s name was submitted a few months ago, they were unaware of the exact timeline. “She was already nominated a few months ago, but it was declared today. Actually, I did not know the complete process, but I came to know today that she has won the award.” Speaking on what the recognition signifies for aspiring young players in Nagpur, Dr Namrata noted that such honours help break mental barriers for budding talent. “It is a very good thing. Everybody now will feel that the award is within reach,” she said. “The start for every kid is like that ... lagta nahi kisiko ki hum kar sakte hai (no child initially feels they can achieve something so big).

 

“In fact, it was the same case with us also. Slowly, we realised that it can be done. The same will happen to many young players now.” Highlighting the collective effort behind a professional athlete’s rise, she emphasised the importance of a strong support ecosystem while giving full credit to Divya’s dedication. “Everyone’s involvement is always there. A young kid cannot do all things alone. Coaches, parents, and family — all contribute to the success of a player, and the same happened with Divya. Of course, all the hard work was done by Divya only. That credit must go to her,” she added. Despite the monumental recognition, the family remains grounded about future goals, maintaining a disciplined approach toward her professional career. “We never set a target, but our plan is to just play to the best of our abilities. That is the only intention — just to play well. And, we will continue with the same mindset,” Dr Namrata signed off. For the records, Divya has become fifth player from the city to have bagged the prestigious Arjuna Award. Ojas Pravin Deotale won the award in 2023 after a stellar run of gold medals in international archery competitions. Vijay Bhalchandra Munishwar received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2000 for his exploits in para-athletics and powerlifting. Neeta Moreshwar Dadwe, who was captain of the Indian women’s kabaddi team, received the coveted trophy in 1996. Late Joginder Singh Bedi was a para-athlete who received the Arjuna Award in 2000 for his lifetime contribution to sport.