Subhechcha Ganguly 
“As the Chief Editor of Interview Times, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride when I heard about the phenomenal achievement of four brave daughters of Odisha — Phula Soren, Parvati Marndi, Jamuna Rani Tudu and Basanti Hansda — who brought home glory by being part of the all-conquering Indian squad that won the first-ever Women’s T20 Blind World Cup. Their victory in Colombo, defeating Nepal by seven wickets in the final, has etched their names into India’s sporting history and given hope to thousands of girls — especially those from humble, remote backgrounds.
Yesterday, when I felicitated them on behalf of Interview Times, I felt I was not just acknowledging their sporting triumph — I was honouring spirit, resilience, and possibility.”
Dibyajit Sahu – Interview Times
The Four Odia Women — Stories of Grit, Dreams and Defiance
Each of the four champions carries a story that can inspire generations:
- Phula Soren from Balasore was instrumental in the final, smashing a blistering 44 runs off 27 balls — a stroke that steered India to victory.
- Basanti Hansda, Parvati Marndi and Jamuna Rani Tudu, hailing from Mayurbhanj district, overcame social prejudice, scarce resources, and everyday challenges to rise to the global stage
- Basanti’s candid words capture the journey best: “People have told us that girls like us can’t do anything. But we didn’t listen.”
These women played not just for a trophy — they played for dignity, hope and change. Their bat, their ball, their will — all spoke louder than the doubts cast upon them.
Felicitation — A Small Gesture, A Big Message
At the ceremony, we awarded each of these four champions a token of appreciation — a small but heartfelt recognition of their achievement. We wanted to tell them: we see you; we honour you; your journey matters.
As I told them — their success belongs not just to them, or to Odisha, or even to India. It belongs to every girl who has ever been told “you can’t.” It belongs to every parent who hesitated when their child said “I want to play.” And because of them, that hesitation should now lose its power.
Beyond the Trophy — What This Victory Means for Odisha and India
This win is more than a sports milestone. It is a signal — that talent doesn’t depend on sight, or background, or privilege. It depends on belief, effort, and opportunity.
For Odisha, this is a moment of pride that transcends districts and divisions. For India, it is a powerful message: inclusion matters. Ability isn’t just about what you see — sometimes it’s about what you dare to dream.
But with victory comes responsibility. As a media house, as a society, we must now ensure this isn’t a one-time applause. We must amplify their stories. Demand infrastructure. Encourage more inclusive sports. Celebrate potential — not pity.
To the Four Champions — This Is Just the Beginning
Phula, Parvati, Jamuna, Basanti — you have given us a momentous victory. But more than that — you’ve given us hope. Hope that boundaries can be broken. Hope that silence can be replaced by applause. Hope that dreams deferred can be dreams realised.
On behalf of every reader of Interview Times, I salute you. May your journey inspire many more to take up the bat — not in spite of their challenges, but because they have chosen to rise above them.
Congratulations, champions. The world is finally catching up to you.
