Raipur. Tikeshwari Sahu, a combative and inspiring Muay Thai player from the capital Raipur, will now go to Antalya (Turkey) to hoist the country’s flag on the international stage. She is the only player from Chhattisgarh in the Indian team of 12 players who have been included in the Indian team for the World Muay Thai Championship to be held from 22 to 31 May 2025. IFMA (International Federation of Muaythai Associations), an organization recognized by the IOC (International Olympic Committee), is organizing this championship.
Mother who runs the house by working as a labourer, daughter becomes the hope of the nation
Tikeshwari’s mother still runs the house by working as a labourer. She lost her father in her childhood, but the mother and daughter did not give up on the circumstances. Today, Tikeshwari has emerged from a BPL family and has become a five-time national champion and a four-time international medal winner.
Tikeshwari has become a role model for the youth
Not only this, Tikeshwari is today working as a coach in the Sports and Youth Welfare Department, Dantewada. She is training children from tribal areas and preparing them for national and international competitions. Apart from being a player herself, she is also giving a new direction to the society through sports.
From national to international: A success story filled with struggles
- 5-time national Muay Thai champion
- Has represented India in international competitions 4 times
- Sometimes active in competitions as players and sometimes as officials
- At present, government coach is giving free training to dozens of children
Tikeshwari’s trainer and mentor, Sensei Anees Memon, a well-known martial arts instructor from Chhattisgarh, has been awarded the “Shaheed Vinod Choubey Samman” by the state government.
Now the target is World Championship – but the financial challenge is huge
It is worth noting that the cost of participating in this international event is estimated to be around ₹2.75 lakh, which includes flight, accommodation, competition fees, and necessary gear. The State Muay Thai Association has appealed to sports lovers, social organizations and entrepreneurs to help this player financially, so that Tikeshwari’s talent is not stopped due to any financial reason.
