At 94, Pani Devi Godara from Bikaner is defying all notions of age and proving that determination and discipline can overcome any barrier. At the 23rd Asian Masters Athletics Championship held in Chennai, she won four gold medals across four different events: the 100-meter sprint, shot put, discus throw, and javelin throw.
Competing in the 90+ age category, her exceptional fitness and talent have not only brought pride to her hometown of Bikaner and the state of Rajasthan but have also placed her on the global stage. Her victory sends a powerful message that age is no barrier to achieving dreams and excelling in sports.
The Journey and Daily Discipline
Known as the “Golden Grandma” of Bikaner, Pani Devi’s journey reflects a balance of passion for athletics and fulfilling family responsibilities.
Her rigorous fitness routine includes daily exercises combined with performing physically demanding tasks like taking care of cows and buffaloes at home. Her simple yet nutritious diet, comprising desi ghee, milk, and bajra roti, fuels her body for endurance and strength.
Despite being a nonagenarian, her fitness regime and relentless will power enable her to compete vigorously in multiple athletics disciplines, where she has amassed an impressive total of 16 gold medals over recent years.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Millions
Pani Devi’s path has not been without challenges. Though she has consistently excelled at national and continental levels, financial constraints have often hindered her participation in international events. For instance, she was unable to compete in last year’s World Masters Athletics Championship in Sweden due to lack of sponsorship.
This highlights the broader issue of neglected support systems for senior athletes, especially women, in India. Her story dramatically underscores the need for institutional help to empower such determined individuals who continue to break age and gender stereotypes, igniting hope in many, especially elder women, who aspire to chase their long-held dreams.
Pani Devi’s Legacy Among Senior Athletes
Pani Devi Godara is part of a growing community of remarkable senior athletes globally who defy age-related stereotypes and continue to inspire through their dedication and success. Similar luminaries include Fauja Singh, who famously ran marathons well into his 100s, and Ruth Frith from Australia, who competed in track and field events past her 100th birthday.
In India, other masters athletes, such as 93-year-old Kusumita Saraswati who competes in long jump and sprints, show that age is no limit. These athletes collectively challenge societal norms, demonstrating the incredible capabilities of older adults in sports and encouraging more inclusive attitudes towards ageing.
Their stories emphasize the need for recognition and support of senior sportspeople, promoting health, vitality, and empowerment across all ages.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Pani Devi Godara’s remarkable achievements emphasise the importance of resilience, community support, and challenging societal norms related to age and gender. By triumphing across multiple athletic events well into her nineties, she embodies the spirit of lifelong ambition and the refusal to be limited by conventional expectations.
The Logical Indian celebrates her as a symbol of strength and perseverance, urging society and policymakers to provide the necessary infrastructure and financial aid to enable senior citizens, particularly women, to realise their full potential. Her story encourages us all to foster environments that promote empathy, inclusivity, and empowerment.
