Indian Athletes Speak Out Against Racism, Say Stereotypes Won't Stop Them from Making the Nation Proud

Athletes Remember Racial Comment
Several sportspersons recounted being called derogatory names and being mistaken for foreigners while competing in other parts of the country.

“People would shout things at us from the stands or make comments about our appearance. It hurts, especially when you wear the India jersey,” said an athlete from Manipur who has donned the India jersey in athletics.

Others from Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Nagaland said such remarks were common during school and college tournaments. Many said the comments were often made out of ignorance, not malice, but still created a sense of exclusion.

Success Is the Best Revenge 
Despite the discrimination, the athletes said they wouldn’t let it ruin their careers. 

"We reply with our medals," said an Assam weightlifter. “There is nothing else when you're on the podium, and the national anthem is playing.

Several athletes cited recent international wins by players from the North-East as proof that talent has no region. They said their goal is to keep performing so future athletes don’t have to deal with the same prejudice.

Demands for More Awareness
Athletes and activists emphasised that more education is needed about India’s cultural and ethnic diversity. 

"Sport unites people. We have to talk about respect off the pitch, too, said a sports psychologist who works with national teams. 

They called on coaches, fans and media to challenge stereotypes and racist language in stadiums and on the internet. Some also called for diversity workshops in sports federations and schools.

Proudly Representing India  
The athletes said that wearing the Indian jersey remains their proud moment. 

"We play for 140 crore Indians, whatever our background," said a footballer from Mizoram. “We hope our stories inspire people to support all athletes equally, no matter where they come from or how they look.”

"With the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games coming up, they said the focus now is on training, winning and making the country proud.