12 Powerful Chapters of Dhanalakshmi Poojary: From Humble Roots to Kabaddi World Cup Glory

Introduction: Who is Dhanalakshmi Poojary?

Dhanalakshmi Poojary is not just a kabaddi player—she is a symbol of resilience and determination. Known for her all-round excellence on the mat, she has risen from humble beginnings to represent India on the global stage. Her journey is not only about victories but about fighting through pain, injuries, and setbacks to live one powerful dream—to wear the Indian jersey.

1. Humble Roots, Powerful Dreams

Born on 16 October 1999 in Karkala, Karnataka, and currently staying in Surathkal, Dhanalakshmi comes from a simple family. Her father worked as a supplier, and her mother as a beedi worker. Despite hardships, her dream was always clear—to represent India.

2. A Dream Begins Early

Her love for kabaddi started at a young age. With fearless raids and strong defense, she quickly proved she was different from the rest.

3. First Step Towards India (2016)

In 2016, she attended the Indian national camp for the first time. That moment became the foundation of her dream—to one day proudly wear the Indian jersey.

4. Strength Built at Alva’s Sports Club

Training at Alva’s Sports Club in Moodabidiri shaped her into a professional athlete. The support and discipline she received helped her grow stronger every day.

5. Rising Star of Karnataka

She represented Karnataka multiple times across national tournaments, consistently delivering strong performances and earning respect as a dependable player.

6. Leading from the Front

Dhanalakshmi proved her leadership by captaining Karnataka in major tournaments:

• 72nd Senior National Championship (Telangana, 2026)
• 71st Senior National Championship (Haryana, 2025)
• Federation Cup (Maharashtra, 2025)

7. University Champion and Leader

She represented All India Inter-University competitions five times and captained Mangalore University three times, showing both skill and leadership.

8. The Toughest Phase: Injuries and Surgeries

Her journey was not easy. She faced major setbacks with two knee surgeries:

• Left knee surgery in 2020
• Right knee surgery in 2022

These injuries could have ended her career, but she refused to give up. Her only dream kept her going—to play for India and wear the Indian jersey.

9. Comeback with Determination

After recovery, she made a strong comeback, proving that true champions rise even after falling. Her hard work brought her back into national selection camps.

10. World Cup Gold Glory (2025)

Her dream turned into reality when she represented India in the 2nd Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
India defeated Chinese Taipei 35–28 in the final, and she proudly became a World Cup gold medalist.

11. Recognition and National Camps

Her achievements earned her:

• Selection for Senior India Coaching Camp (2025)
• Selection for Asian Games 2026 Preparatory Camp
• ₹5 lakh reward from the Karnataka Government

12. Eyes Set on Asian Games 2026

Currently training in the national camp, Dhanalakshmi is focused on her next big goal—the Asian Games 2026. Her journey continues with the same passion and hunger.

Coaches Behind My Journey

Behind every successful athlete stands the guidance of dedicated coaches. In my early days, Vinod Sir and Rolf Sir built my foundation during primary training. During high school, Anand Sir and Krishna Anna shaped my skills and strengthened my game.

At Alva’s, Hamsavathi C.H. Ma’am has been the biggest pillar of my journey—training me for the past 10 years and guiding me to reach this level. Even today, I continue to train under her mentorship, constantly striving to improve and achieve greater heights.

A Family’s Dream and My Motivation

My pappa and amma have always been my biggest support system. Coming from a simple background where no one in my family has had a government job, they carry a strong dream—that I achieve one and bring stability to our family. They believed in sports because they heard that athletes can earn government opportunities through their achievements.

That belief became my responsibility. Along with my dream of wearing the Indian jersey, I carry my parents’ dream in my heart—to succeed through sports and make them proud by securing a government job.

Conclusion: The Jersey That Means Everything

Dhanalakshmi Poojary’s story is not just about kabaddi—it is about never giving up. From injuries and surgeries to standing on the world stage, she proved that dreams don’t break when the body does.

Her belief is simple yet powerful:
No matter how many obstacles come, the dream to wear the Indian jersey is bigger than everything.

And today, she is living that dream—while inspiring thousands to chase theirs.