Asian Games silver medallist Naorem Roshibina Devi achieved a remarkable feat in the Wushu competition under the 60kg women’s category. While her achievement on the global platform is commendable, Roshibina’s thoughts were consistently preoccupied with her strife-torn home state of Manipur.
After clinching the silver medal, Roshibina wasted no time in dedicating her victory to the people of Manipur. Her emotions overwhelmed her during her media interactions, leading to tears that not only expressed her happiness but also her deep concern for her family members residing in Manipur.
In her statement to PTI, Roshibina conveyed the distress she felt about the ongoing violence in Manipur, despite the fact that her immediate family members and relatives were not directly affected. She described how her village had been engulfed in turmoil for nearly five months, with Manipur constantly teetering on the edge since May. The volatile situation had created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, causing her to worry incessantly about the safety and well-being of her parents and siblings.
For Naorem Roshibina Devi, the path to success at the Asian Games was not solely about achieving her sporting goals in the relatively less popular discipline of Wushu. It was also about combating the anxiety and fear that stemmed from the unstable environment in her homeland.
In her own words, she expressed the constant unease she felt: “Anything can happen anytime.” The 22-year-old athlete’s victory in China, though emotionally charged, was tinged with the weight of her concerns for her family’s safety and the prevailing conditions in Manipur.
Her dedication of the silver medal to Manipur served as a poignant reminder of the complex realities faced by athletes from strife-torn regions. Roshibina’s achievement not only highlighted her exceptional talent and determination but also shed light on the challenges that athletes like her encounter on their journey to success.
As the world celebrated her sporting prowess, Naorem Roshibina Devi continued to grapple with the harsh realities of life in Manipur. Her story resonated with many, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of individuals who rise above adversity to achieve greatness.
In the end, Roshibina’s victory was not just a personal triumph but a source of inspiration for her fellow Manipuris and all those who face adversity in their pursuit of dreams. Her dedication to her state and her unwavering concern for her family’s safety exemplify the true essence of resilience and the human spirit.
