Grace in Every Stride: Srabani Nanda on Dreams, Discipline, and Determination
India showcased an outstanding performance at the 26th Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, finishing second in the overall medal tally with an impressive haul of 24 medals, 8 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze. The championships highlighted the nation's growing strength and depth in athletics, with Indian athletes excelling across a wide range of events including sprints, middle-distance races, relays, jumps, and throws.
Among the many stars, the spirit of Odisha stood tall. Animesh Kujur sprinted into the record books with a breathtaking run in the men’s 200 m, claiming bronze while rewriting the national record. Equally moving was Srabani Nanda’s graceful return to the international arena, where she anchored the women’s 4×100 m relay team to a silver finish, embodying both experience and endurance. Their achievements are more than medals; they are stories of quiet perseverance, of dreams nurtured in distant corners, now resonating on the grand stage. Odisha’s contribution promises a new era in Indian athletics, one filled with hope, pride, and boundless potential.
My City Links had the delightful opportunity to engage in a candid conversation with Srabani Nanda, one of Odisha’s most celebrated sprinters, where she shared her journey, recent achievements, and the unwavering determination that fuels her passion for the sport. It was not just an interview, but a glimpse into the life, struggles, and triumphs of an athlete who continues to inspire with her resilience and grace, on and off the track.
First of all, heartfelt congratulations on winning a silver medal at the recent Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea. How was the experience for you?
Thank you so much. Representing my country on the international stage is always an incredible honor and a deep responsibility. Winning a medal for India takes that pride to an entirely different level, it’s a feeling that’s hard to put into words. This particular medal holds special significance for me; it’s not just a reward, but a powerful source of motivation as I look ahead to all my upcoming competitions.
How did you step into the field of sports?
I began my journey in sports during my school days in Phulbani. Later, after joining the Government Sports Hostel in Bhubaneswar, I started pursuing it professionally.
Tell us about your journey in the initial days. What are the major challenges you have faced or you feel are there in this particular field?
Initially, I did not know sports and did not know what facilities and support were required to become one of the country’s top sprinters. Financial constraints also posed significant challenges, making it difficult to afford proper travel, accommodation, and nutrition during competitions, as well as to purchase the necessary sports equipment for both training and personal use.
What motivates you to keep moving in those challenging times? How do you keep yourself focused on your goal?
Once I realized that my ultimate goal was to represent India at the Olympics, everything else became secondary. That single dream kept me motivated every morning and evening, pushing me to stay focused and committed. I was willing to make sacrifices, whether it was academics, family time, or social life because I had one clear vision in mind. No matter the challenges, my deep passion for excelling in sports gave me the strength to keep moving forward.
How do you handle pressure and keep your cool in important sports events? How do you handle failures?
In my early years, I never really felt any pressure. I was too young to fully understand expectations. But as time passed and people around me began expecting victories, that’s when I started feeling the weight of pressure. Over time, I learned how to manage it effectively. Training alongside some of the country’s and even the world’s top athletes had a profound impact on me. Interacting with them, hearing their experiences, and learning from their journeys helped shape my mindset. I also took part in several psychology sessions with two to three professionals, which further helped me develop mental resilience and clarity.
When it comes to failure, my perspective has evolved significantly. As a junior athlete, I often won gold in my age group and rarely faced defeat. But stepping into the senior level was a completely different experience. I quickly realized that failure wasn’t the end, it was part of the process. Each setback became a lesson, motivating me to work harder and improve. I now value those failures because they played a crucial role in helping me achieve many of my goals in sports.
How is the Odisha Government helping sports persons in the state? What are some of the major supports that are there from the government side? Do you expect any improvements?
The Odisha Government has provided the essential infrastructure needed to support sports development. Top athletes in the state receive a basic level of financial assistance and training support. I’m very grateful to Odisha Hydro Power Corporation Ltd. for their financial support and for standing by me throughout my journey.
Overall, the support system is decent, but there is room for improvement. To reach international standards, it's crucial to involve experienced sports experts who can strategically plan and implement programs tailored to meet the specific needs of athletes at the world level.
Have public perceptions of sports transformed in recent years?
Yes, absolutely. However, due to the lack of proper sports education and awareness, many people remain uncertain about how to begin a career in sports or what the future holds in this field. I believe this is an area that needs significant improvement. In this context, sports journalism can play a crucial role, by spreading awareness, sharing success stories, and providing clarity and guidance to aspiring athletes.
What's your daily routine and diet? Are cheat meals allowed?
I follow a diet that aligns with my training schedule, which varies depending on the phase I’m in. I make a conscious effort to avoid unhealthy fats, junk food, sugary drinks, and sweets. There is no cheat day for me. I’m fully aware of the impact even small compromises can have on my performance. So whatever is in my control I try to do it right.
What are your aspirations and targets for the coming years?
I’m currently focused on all my upcoming competitions, with my training and preparation in full swing. Next year is especially crucial, as it’s a major games year with events like the 2026 Commonwealth Games on the horizon. Every performance leading up to these events matters, and I’m committed to giving my absolute best at every stage.
Finally, what will be your advice for the young kids who aspire to become like you?
Don’t seek motivation solely by following others, strive to become someone who inspires others instead. Whatever path you choose in life, stay true to yourself. When you simply follow others, you risk losing your own identity and potential. True success comes from embracing who you are and allowing your journey to inspire those around you.
