From the village fields of Sundargarh to captaining India on her international debut, 16-year-old Sweety Kujur has scripted an inspiring journey of grit, talent and determination, leading the national team to a bronze medal at the U-18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026
Satish Sharma
For decades, Odisha’s Sundargarh district has been regarded as the cradle of Indian hockey. From its dusty village grounds have emerged countless players who have represented the nation on the international stage. The latest name to emerge from this remarkable sporting landscape is Sweety Kujur, a 16-year-old prodigy whose rise has inspired an entire region.
At the 6th Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship held in Japan in June 2026, Sweety not only earned her first call-up to the Indian team but was also entrusted with the captaincy.
For Sundargarh, it was a historic milestone: never before had a player from the district been handed the leadership of a national team at the very moment of making her debut. Under her captaincy, India delivered an impressive campaign and secured the bronze medal.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
Sweety hails from Barkatoli village under Kesramal Panchayat in Rajgangpur block. Her father, Kamal Kujur, works as a daily wage labourer, and the family survives on a modest and uncertain income. The youngest of four daughters, Sweety grew up in circumstances where resources were limited but aspirations were never discouraged.
Her parents consistently supported their daughters’ ambitions despite financial hardships. Her elder sister, Khushboo Kujur, is also undergoing hockey training at the Panposh Sports Hostel, reflecting the family’s deep commitment to the sport.
A Dream Born on Village Grounds
Like many children in Sundargarh, Sweety picked up a hockey stick at an early age and began playing on the village fields. She later joined the grassroots training centre at Kesramal, where her speed, attacking instincts, and eagerness to learn quickly caught the attention of coaches.
In 2024, she was selected for the prestigious Panposh Sports Hostel, where she trained under coach Peter Soren refined her skills. Strong performances in sub-junior national competitions earned her a place in the national training camp, eventually leading to her selection for the Indian Under-18 team. Three other girls from Sundargarh – Kiran Ekka, Priyanka Minz, and Rubina Bakhla were also part of the squad.
A Captain in Her First International Tournament
Representing India for the first time on the international stage was already a dream come true. Being named captain made the achievement even more extraordinary.
Sweety admits she never imagined she would lead the national side. She recalls being genuinely surprised when her name was announced as captain. According to her, she maintained friendly relationships with all her teammates during the camp, and coach Rani Rampal may have recognised leadership qualities in her that went beyond her performances on the field.
The responsibility did not weigh her down. Instead, she embraced it with maturity and confidence, guiding a young Indian side through a demanding tournament.
Leading India to a Bronze Medal
India impressed throughout the championship. In the semi-final against China, the match ended 2–2 in regulation time, but India fell short in the penalty shootout, narrowly missing a place in the final.
Refusing to let disappointment define their campaign, the team bounced back brilliantly in the bronze medal match, defeating South Korea 3–0 to finish on the podium.
Playing as a forward, Sweety made a significant contribution by scoring four goals during the tournament, underlining both her leadership and her attacking prowess.
Sweety considers fellow Sundargarh hockey player Sheelanand Lakra her role model and dreams of one day representing India’s senior women’s team. Her ultimate ambition is to win medals for the country at the biggest international tournaments.
Back home, however, the family continues to face financial challenges. Her father’s daily wages remain the primary source of income, and much of the family’s hope rests on the determination and talent of its daughters. At just 16 years of age, Sweety still has several years before professional opportunities may provide financial stability, but her family firmly believes that her dedication will one day transform their lives.
(The author is a Senior Sports Journalist. Views expressed are personal.)