“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.“
Imagine the bustling streets near Sardar Patel Marg in Prayagraj, where the morning sun casts long shadows over the modest homes lining the narrow lanes. It is here that Bhumi and Aanchal Sonkar, two sisters with dreams as expansive as the Ganges flowing nearby, began their extraordinary journey. Their story is one of resilience, talent, and the unwavering support of Shuruaat-Ek Jyoti Shiksha ki.
From a young age, Bhoomi and Aanchal displayed promising skills in swimming, their youthful determination shining through in local school competitions. Yet, it was during their 11th grade that fate intervened, leading them to cross paths with Shuruaat. Intrigued by the NGO’s pad bank initiative aimed at supporting menstrual hygiene among the underprivileged, the sisters found themselves drawn into a world where their talents would be nurtured and their potential unlocked.
Recognizing their talent, the mentors at the NGO introduced them to Muskan, a distinguished tennis player. Muskan Ma’am saw their potential and took them under her wing. She initially assessed their stamina and suggested various physical activities to understand their strengths better. Soon, it was evident that they had a natural talent for swimming, and they were introduced to their coach and mentor, Dhavan Sir, who runs a boat club in Prayagraj.
Under the mentorship of Dhavan Sir, Bhumi and Aanchal flourished. They trained diligently in the sacred waters of the Ganga, mastering both swimming and kayaking in K1 (single paddler), K2 (two paddlers), and K4 (four paddlers) categories.
Their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of support. Coming from a conservative low-caste background, they faced immense challenges and prejudice. Despite this, they remained resilient, bolstered by the constant encouragement from their mentors and the NGO.
The sisters endured daily verbal abuse, often being called derogatory slurs that attacked their caste and gender. The boys at the academy, threatened by their achievements, did not hesitate to use the foulest language to demean and intimidate them. The constant barrage of slurs was not just an attack on their self-esteem but also a reminder of the societal barriers they were challenging every day.
The threats extended beyond verbal abuse. The boys at the academy often threatened Bhoomi and Aanchal with physical violence, telling them they would be beaten if they continued to excel. These threats were not empty; there were moments when the sisters genuinely feared for their safety. The hostile environment was a daily battle, one that tested their resolve and strength.
However, with the support of senior players like Lucky Bhaiya, the most seasoned and senior player of kayaking within their circle, Dhavan sir and the unwavering belief of the NGO, they persevered. Their parents, initially hesitant, were swayed by the passionate guidance of Abhishek Sir, the founder of Shuruaat-Ek Jyoti Shiksha Ki, who reassured them and motivated the girls to pursue their dreams.
In addition to their sports achievements, Bhoomi and Aanchal are currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree, fully funded by the NGO. This educational support is crucial in helping them build a brighter future and break the cycle of poverty that has plagued their family for generations.
Their family and societal dynamics add another layer of complexity to their story. Relatives and Neighbours often questioned the wisdom of allowing the girls to pursue sports, citing concerns about their safety, potential for tanning, and marriage prospects. Despite these negative influences, their parents remained supportive, wanting their daughters to achieve greatness and be known for their accomplishments. Whenever doubts arose, Abhishek Sir was there to reassure and motivate their parents, providing unwavering support and encouragement.
There are many heartwarming moments in Bhumi and Aanchal’s journey. One particularly tough time was when Bhumi suffered a severe health scare during training. Lucky Bhaiya and Dhaman Sir, although not members of the NGO, along with Abhishek Sir, stayed by her side all night, taking care of her hospital bills and offering emotional support. Bhumi recalls this as a time when she realized how much they genuinely cared for her well-being.
For Aanchal, one of the most cherished memories is the grand celebration organized by the NGO when she won her first medal. The joy and pride she felt that day remain unmatched.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Bhumi and Aanchal’s determination knew no bounds. They defied stereotypes and shattered glass ceilings, clinching more than 15 medals in kayaking and counting, triumphing in prestigious events like Khelo India and national championships across various categories. Each medal not only symbolized their athletic prowess but also served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young girls facing similar societal constraints.
Bhumi and Aanchal aspire to represent India in their sport and inspire the younger generation to find their passion in sports or in any field. They believe that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves support and love. Despite the adversities and the prevalent caste discrimination, they have emerged stronger and more determined.
One of the most daunting hurdles they encountered was the disparity in treatment between athletes from Uttar Pradesh (UP) and other states, notably Madhya Pradesh (MP). Despite their talent and numerous accolades, the selection committees often favored participants from MP, citing perceived advantages in facilities and support systems. This bias not only affected their chances in national competitions but also fueled their determination to excel despite the odds.
Moreover, the lack of adequate equipment and training facilities in UP posed additional challenges. Unlike their counterparts from states with better resources, Bhumi and Aanchal had to make do with limited access to quality gear and training venues. This disparity not only hindered their performance but also underscored the need for equitable investment in sports infrastructure across all regions of India.
Bhumi and Aanchal’s story is a beacon of hope, showing that with determination, support, and love, one can rise above any adversity. Their message is clear: spread love and support, and let every child have the opportunity to succeed.
Join us in making a difference. Just like Aanchal and Bhumi there are a lot of children that are helped by the NGO to fulfil their dream and become a successful person. Help us help more lives like them.
Testimonial from Aanchal:
“I owe everything I am today to the NGO. Without their unwavering support and belief in my potential, I would never have achieved what I have. Coming from a modest background where financial constraints often dictated my choices, pursuing sports at a competitive level seemed like an impossible dream. However, the NGO not only provided me with the necessary resources but also instilled in me the confidence and determination to push beyond boundaries.
Their support went beyond just financial assistance. It was their belief in me that fueled my determination to excel in kayaking. I remember the countless hours of training and the moments of doubt, but it was the mentors at Shuruaat Ek Jyoti Shiksha ki and Dhavan sir who stood by me, guiding me through every stroke and every challenge.”
Testimonial from Bhumi:
“Shuruaat Ek Jyoti Shiksha is more than just an NGO to me; it is my second family. Growing up in a neighbourhood where opportunities were scarce. They believed in my potential when others overlooked it, providing me with the support and encouragement I needed to pursue my passion for kayaking. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping my journey from a young girl with a dream to a competitive athlete. The values of resilience, teamwork, and perseverance that I have learned from them extend far beyond the waters I paddle.
As I reflect on my journey and the medals we’ve won together, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. Now, I am eager to give back and inspire others at the NGO, just as they have inspired me. I am committed to doing my best to bring out the best in my fellow brothers and sisters here, helping them realise their full potential and achieve their dreams.”
