India dominated the gold medal tally at the seventh Carrom World Cup held from December 2 to 6 at Barcelo Nasandhura Hotel in Male, Maldives, with Tamil Nadu’s L Keerthana securing three golds in women’s singles, doubles, and team events alongside Kajal Kumari, M Khazima, and V Mithra.
Over 150 players from 17 nations competed, where hosts Maldives earned silver in women’s team and other finals while Sri Lanka took bronze; Keerthana appealed for a government job and house upon returning to Chennai amid family hardships, backed by Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin’s Rs 1.5 lakh support.
Tamil Nadu Stars Lead India’s Triumph
The event showcased India’s prowess in the traditional board game, with Tamil Nadu athletes driving the national success against strong international fields. Keerthana from Chennai’s Kasimedu emerged as the standout, clinching the women’s singles world champion title by defeating compatriot Kajal Kumari. This victory capped a stellar run, building on India’s consistent dominance in global carrom tournaments.
The women’s team, featuring Keerthana, Kajal, Khazima, and Mithra, outplayed Maldives in the final for gold, while doubles saw Keerthana and Kajal secure another top honour. Hosts Maldives celebrated their silver as a historic milestone, with officials praising the fierce competition.
Medal Breakdown and Key Matches
Keerthana’s hat-trick included gold in singles over Kajal (silver), doubles gold with her, and team gold; Khazima added gold, silver, bronze across events, Mithra grabbed gold and silver.
M Khazima placed third in singles, underscoring Tamil Nadu’s sweep with multiple podiums. Maldives women reached finals after semis wins, settling for silver, as Sri Lanka earned bronze.
Challenges Behind the Glory
From humble beginnings, Keerthana’s journey reflects grit, training on local boards to reach world stage. The tournament drew diverse nations, boosting carrom’s global appeal under International Carrom Federation. Officials noted over 150 competitors, with India’s women dominating finals.
Family presence at the airport added warmth, as authorities mulled her requests. This success follows Commonwealth golds for players like Kajal, cementing India’s status. Keerthana’s story humanises sport’s demands, blending talent with resilience.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Keerthana’s triple golds from hardship embody the power of perseverance, yet her plea exposes gaps in rewarding grassroots heroes.
The Logical Indian champions empathy and fairness, urging governments to provide jobs, homes, and facilities for athletes fostering national unity. Such support builds harmony and shared prosperity through sport.
