Raising the Bar

‘The Rio Olympics for India, regardless of its disappointments, became immensely significant. In the dynamics of Indian sports, its legacy could be far-reaching. Three women, in their maiden Olympics, had blazed a trail unforeseen. Dipa Karmakar became the first Indian to qualify for Olympics, and reach the finals. Her fourth-place finish would be a significant benchmark for upcoming gymnasts. Sakshi Malik became the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal in a sport traditionally marked for men. PV Sindhu became the youngest Indian to win an Olympic medal and the first badminton player to win a silver. ‘The chances of these three women pioneers were once viewed at best quixotic. Through their exemplary performances, they have woken up the entire country. To dream.’