Gajanan Kirtikar hails Sonali Shingte and women's kabaddi gold
India defends its title with a thrilling 37-34 victory over Iran in the women's kabaddi final at the Asian Games 2026.
In a moment of immense sporting pride, the Indian women's kabaddi team has secured the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026, successfully defending their title in a high-octane final against Iran. The victory, which saw India emerge triumphant with a 37-34 scoreline, has sparked celebrations across the nation, particularly in Maharashtra.
A Thrilling Defense of the Title
The final was a nail-biting encounter that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the very last second. Iran mounted a fierce comeback attempt in the closing stages of the match, putting immense pressure on the Indian squad. With only one minute left on the clock, the contest hung in the balance as Iran fought desperately to bridge the gap.
However, the Indian defense remained resolute. A decisive tackle on Iran's Aynaz in the final minute effectively neutralized the threat and sealed the gold medal for India. Sanju Devi, who has been a standout performer throughout the tournament, played a pivotal role in helping the team withstand the intense Iranian onslaught during the medal decider.
Tributes to Mumbai's Sonali Shingte
Following the victory, Gajanan Kirtikar, the Executive President of the Maharashtra State Kabaddi Association, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the team. He specifically highlighted the contribution of Mumbai's own Sonali Shingte, a prominent player from the Shivshakti Club.
"Kabaddi is played across many Asian countries, and there is a high level of proficiency in the sport throughout the region; however, we consider India to be the place where Kabaddi originated. Sonali Shingte, a resident of Mumbai and a top-tier player of the Shivshakti Club, has demonstrated exceptional skill," Kirtikar stated.Kirtikar expressed his pride in how Shingte and her teammates have brought glory to both Maharashtra and the entire country on the international stage.
The Golden Squad
The Indian women's kabaddi team that secured this historic gold medal consists of the following players:
- Pooja
- Raj Rani
- Sonali Vishnu Shingate
- Pushpa
- Bhavna Devi
- Ritu
- Sanju Devi
- Ritu Negi
- Manisha Kumari
- Pinki Roy
- Jyoti
- Nikita
This victory marks India's third gold medal of the Asian Games 2026, further cementing the nation's dominance in the sport of kabaddi.