Women’s empowerment in sports highlights at Telangana–North East Connect Festival

The Telangana–North East Connect Festival concluded with a dynamic panel discussion titled “Spirit of the Game: Connecting Telangana and North East,” featuring leading sportspersons from the region, including Bhaichung Bhutia, Mirabai Chanu and Laishram Sarita Devi. The session was moderated by journalist Pradip Phanjoubam.
The discussion centred on strengthening connections between Telangana and the North East through sports. Mirabai Chanu spoke about the importance of women breaking stereotypes and pursuing their sporting aspirations, encouraging young female athletes in Telangana to chase their dreams with confidence. Laishram Sarita Devi recounted her journey from a small village to the international boxing arena and highlighted the role of her academy in nurturing underprivileged children.
Other panellists included Pullela Gopichand, Dronacharya Awardee from Telangana, and Mantu Debnath, Arjuna Awardee in gymnastics from Tripura.
The three-day festival, held at the Hitex Exhibition Centre in Telangana, featured cultural performances, literary sessions, film screenings and sports clinics conducted by athletes from the North East. The event also saw the signing of MoUs between sports organisations of Telangana and the North East to foster future collaborations.