Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, from Imphal, Manipur, has risen from a childhood of hardship and resistance to become the first Indian woman to play 100 international football matches and captain the Indian Women’s National Football Team.
Her journey, marked by determination, leadership, and resilience, is an inspiration for young girls across India. Ashalata continues to lead the team as a “rock at the back” and a role model for aspiring footballers.
From Humble Beginnings to Historic Leadership
Ashalata Devi’s football journey began at the age of 13 in Imphal, Manipur, where she was inspired to play after watching only boys participate in school matches. She took the initiative to form a girls’ team and played with makeshift equipment, facing both societal and familial challenges.
Despite initial punishment at home for pursuing football, her passion and leadership qualities shone through. She broke into the Indian U17 women’s team at age 15 and soon found her niche as a defender, a position in which she has excelled ever since.
Today, Ashalata is not only the captain of the Indian Women’s National Football Team but also the first Indian woman to achieve 100 international caps, a milestone she reached during the SAFF Women’s Championship 2024 against Pakistan.
She is widely regarded as one of Asia’s finest defenders, having been nominated for the AFC Women’s Player of the Year in 2019 and named AIFF Women’s Player of the Year for 2018–1947. Her leadership and consistency have made her a central figure in Indian women’s football.
A Legacy of Resilience and Achievement
Ashalata’s rise to prominence was not easy. After her father’s death, her mother worked tirelessly to support the family, while Ashalata juggled training with coaching and physical education classes to sustain herself.
She played for various clubs, including New Radiant in the Maldives, Rising Student Club, KRYPHSA, Sethu, and currently East Bengal, winning accolades at both the national and international levels. She has been part of the Indian team that won multiple South Asian Games gold medals and the SAFF Women’s Championship four times consecutively.
Her journey reflects the broader challenges faced by women in Indian sports, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, and underscores the importance of perseverance and support. Ashalata’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and the courage to break barriers.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Ashalata Devi’s story is a beacon of hope and resilience, embodying the values of empathy, courage, and perseverance. The Logical Indian celebrates her achievements as a victory for all young girls who dare to dream beyond societal limitations.
Her journey highlights the urgent need for greater support and opportunities for women in sports and society at large. As we reflect on her remarkable path, we ask our readers:
