Manju Munda: From Sialijoda Village to International Wushu Glory, Now Selected in Assam Rifles

Badabil–Joda region of Kendujhar district has once again made headlines with the remarkable achievements of Manju Munda, a Wushu martial arts player from Sialijoda village under Joda block.

Known for her grit and determination, Manju has won several medals at both national and international competitions, bringing pride to Odisha and India.

Her journey began at the Jindal Sports Hostel, where she received her initial training.

Later, she honed her skills at the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Wushu Indoor Stadium in Badabil under the guidance of coach Pankaj Kumar Mahanta.

A graduate of Joda Women’s College, Manju overcame personal hardships—her father passed away before her birth, and her mother works as a daily-wage labourer at Jindal Steel.

Despite these challenges, she rose to prominence through sheer dedication.

Manju’s achievements include a gold medal at the Moscow Wushu Stars Competition in Russia, a silver medal at the Acropolis International Wushu Open Tournament in Greece, and podium finishes at multiple national championships, including the 38th National Games and senior Wushu championships in Pune and Srinagar.

She also clinched gold at the Khelo India Women Wushu League in Bagalkot.

Recently, Manju was selected in the 20th Tranches Rojgar Mela organised by Assam Rifles, Government of India.

After completing her medical test, she will officially join the force and represent Assam state in future competitions.

Coach Pankaj Kumar Mahanta expressed mixed emotions, stating that despite his efforts to secure her a government job in Odisha, the opportunity did not materialise.

“I am proud of her success, but disappointed that Odisha could not retain such a talent. Now she will play for Assam Rifles and represent Assam,” he said.

Villagers and the Kendujhar district administration have lauded the role of the DMF Wushu Stadium in Badabil, which provided Manju with the platform to reach this stage.

Her story stands as a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of sports to transform lives.