From Village to Victory: Divyani Linda's Unyielding Football Journey

Divyani Linda, an India U-17 women's football sensation from Jharkhand, inspires with her rise from humble beginnings. Her journey caught national attention when Union Minister Sanjay Seth pledged support for her. Despite personal and financial struggles, Divyani aims for global football glory, dreaming of the Commonwealth Games and Olympics.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 28-05-2026 16:30 IST | Created: 28-05-2026 16:30 IST
From Village to Victory: Divyani Linda's Unyielding Football Journey
MOS Sanjay Seth with India U17 football player Divyani Linda. (Photo/ANI). Image Credit: ANI

In an inspiring story of determination and triumph, Divyani Linda, an Indian U-17 women's football player, has garnered widespread attention after Union Minister of State Defence Sanjay Seth and Ranchi MP Sanjay Seth visited her family in Jharkhand. The ministers pledged to support Linda's ambitions, promising medical aid for her brother and infrastructure development for her village.

Highlighting her struggles, Seth described Divyani as the "pride of the nation," who has overcome numerous challenges, including the loss of her father and her brother's paralysis, to collect over 50 international accolades from a modest hut. Seth emphasized the government's role in nurturing sporting talent by announcing plans for a new home and local football fields.

Divyani's journey is marked by passion and perseverance, having excelled in tournaments both within Asia and globally, even eyeing spots in future Commonwealth and Olympic Games. Her mother, Pratima Devi, a daily wage worker, has supported Divyani's dreams, despite financial and personal setbacks, ensuring her daughter remains a beacon of hope for young athletes in India.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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