‘Queen of the ring’,
‘Magnificent Mary’, ‘Manipur’s Golden Girl’- are some of the words used to describe
Indian boxing legend Mungte Chungneijang Mary Kom. Born into a poor farmer’s
family in Manipur, Mary Kom realized her love for Boxing at an early age. And
ever since, she overcame all odds and devoted her life to this passion.
2012
sees the debut of Women’s boxing in the Olympics. How do you feel about that?
Mary Kom: Representing India at
the Olympics has always been a far-fetched dream. And now that Women’s Boxing
has finally been introduced to the
Olympics, it’s a dream come true. I am a five times World Champion but I am not
happy with that, nobody knows me yet. If I win a medal at the Olympics, I’m
sure I’ll gain more popularity and fame. I’ll also be fetching popularity for
this sport in India.
Mary Kom: It’s a game, it
happens. This was the first time I faced a European boxer at Worlds and my
first time in the 51kgs category. Also, at the Worlds, there were close to 55
boxers. As they were all present at the championship, getting through was
tough. Even the top Chinese boxers in the 60 and 75kgs weren’t able to get
through and qualify for the Olympics. Changing weights too, has been quite a
challenge for me. I’ve had the chance to explore my potential. I would’ve been
champion if I was fighting in the 48kgs. I have already defeated the champion
from Philippines thrice so I believe I would have done so again.
Now
that you’ve secured a berth in the London Olympics, what’s your plan of action?
Have you begun training?
Mary Kom: Haven’t spared a
moment! Olympics were always a top-priority event for me. I will be upgrading my
training regime to sharpen my skills. I need to improve in every aspect of
fighting; I will be doing more workouts and also work on my mental strength. I
will be going to Patiala to train with the boys at the National Institute of
Sports, Patiala. This should help me improve. As of now, I’ll be spending vacation
time with my family for 10-15 days after which I’ll resume training.
What
do you think is the one thing that differentiates you from your competitors?
Mary Kom: Firstly, I’m a mother
of two (Laughs). I make sure that I remain active all the time. I give my 100%,
no matter what. I believe I have seen and studied techniques of players from
all over the world. Olympics will not be as tough as the Worlds as there’ll be
select boxers there.
You
are an inspiration for women in India. How do you juggle your work and
professional life? There are a lot of women out there seeking your advice. Any
mantra?
Mary Kom: There’s no mantra as
such. I was fortunate to have a cooperative family who was with me, no matter
what. I never compromise my family for anything. I call my kids 5-6 times a
day. They tell me they miss me, and I get emotional. But that just gives me strength
to play. I do it all for my family.
You
are a role model for millions. Who is YOUR role model?
Mary Kom: With Dinko Singh
winning Gold in ’98 Asian games, boxing went through a new wave in Manipur. So,
he’s always been a role model and an ardent encouragement to pursue my
endeavor. Mohammed Ali is my role model too. I grew up watching him play and
learnt a lot from him. I am also a fan of Mike Tyson. I never miss films
featuring Mike Tyson or Mohammed Ali.
How
do you prepare yourself mentally before entering the ring?
Mary Kom: Focus and faith are
two things that need to be set right before entering the ring. I have always
devoted my every endeavor to God so I say a little prayer asking for focus and
courage. It’s very important to stay composed in a ring.
Message
for Women pursuing sports in India?
Mary Kom: A little hard work,
strong will and determination is all it takes. Being a woman sports person is
never easy. It takes a little courage. So my advice- Never take no for an
answer. Beat all the odds!
Thanks
a lot for sparing your valuable time and speaking to us. IOS wishes you all the
best for the Olympics and all your future endeavors.
Mary Kom: Thank you! I’ll give
my best.
- IOS Sports and Entertainment.
