Madhuri Kindo Strives to Fulfill Brother’s Dreams Through Her Hockey Career

In a tale of determination and familial devotion, 23-year-old Madhuri Kindo, an emerging talent in Indian women’s hockey, has once again earned a spot in the core probable group of the ongoing Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp at SAI Bengaluru. This marks her second selection for the prestigious camp, having first been included in 2024. While she is yet to make her senior team debut, Kindo is driven by a personal mission—to fulfill the dreams of her elder brother Manoj, an accomplished national-level hockey player.

A Legacy in the Making

Kindo’s hockey journey began in her childhood village of Kadobahal, Rourkela, where she picked up the sport at the age of eight, inspired by her brother Manoj, who now plays for the Army Hockey Team. “He couldn’t fulfill his dream of representing India at the highest level, and now, through my efforts, I want to live that dream for him,” Kindo expressed.

Coming from a humble background, with her father working as a farmer and her mother as a homemaker, Madhuri received unwavering support from her family. “My father always believed in me, and my aunt encouraged me to take hockey seriously. Without their backing, I wouldn’t have come this far,” she shared.

Rise Through the Ranks

Her professional career took shape when she joined the Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela in 2012, where she trained under coach Amulya Nanda Bihari. By 2021, she earned her place in the Indian Junior Women’s Team, participating in prestigious tournaments such as the 2023 Junior Asia Cup—where India secured a Gold medal—and the 2023 Junior World Cup.

Although she initially played as a defender, her transition to goalkeeping came when a coach noticed her height and agility. Despite initial hesitation, she adapted quickly, embracing the leadership and mental resilience required for the position. “Being a goalkeeper, you see the entire field, and I’ve learned how to handle my team, motivate them under pressure, and keep pushing forward,” she explained.

Making Her Mark on the National Stage

One of the most defining moments of her career came during the Junior Asia Cup victory, an achievement that brought immense pride to her family and village. “So many people from my village, including the Sarpanch, came to congratulate my parents. That moment made me realize I have the ability to bring pride to my family and my nation,” she recalled.

Another milestone in her journey was during the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup in 2023, where she made four back-to-back saves in a tense penalty shootout against New Zealand, securing victory for India. “That moment made me believe in myself. Knowing I could stand strong when my team needed me most—it’s something I’ll never forget,” she said.

Inspired by a Legend

Kindo idolizes Indian Women’s Hockey Team goalkeeper Savita, whom she considers both a mentor and an inspiration. “Savita di is my role model. Watching her play, learning from her leadership and composure, has been invaluable. Even now, when I train with her, I learn so much about handling pressure and motivating the team,” she shared.

Eyes on the Future

Madhuri’s immediate goal is to make her senior team debut, but her ambitions extend further. “My dream is to win an Olympic medal for India,” she declared. “I want to play for as long as I can and give my parents and my brother the recognition they deserve. They’ve given me everything, and now it’s my turn to give back.”

With unwavering dedication and a deep-rooted passion for the sport, Madhuri Kindo is on the path to turning dreams into reality, not just for herself but for her family and the entire nation.