Patna/Nalanda: Alpana Kumari, known as India’s “Golden Girl” of rugby, has emerged from Dharahara village in Nalanda to become a celebrated national athlete, defying injuries and societal expectations along the way.
The youngest of three children, Alpana is the daughter of farmer Sanjay Kumar and housewife Sunita Devi. Her journey to sporting prominence began at school in 2019, encouraged by her physical education teacher Bhavesh Kumar. What started as a hobby quickly became a serious pursuit, culminating in a gold medal at the Khelo India Youth Games in Bihar last year, earning her the “Golden Girl” title.
Alpana’s path has not been without setbacks. In 2023, during an India Under-18 practice session, she broke her collarbone and was sidelined for three months. Many feared this could end her career. A second collarbone injury in 2024 during a senior district match in Begusarai threatened her future again. Yet, with unwavering support from her parents, grandfather, and coach Ritesh Ranjan, Alpana made a successful comeback, reclaiming her place in the national team by 2025.
She has competed in three international tournaments, winning silver in the Under-18 championship in China (2023) and bronze in the Asian Under-20 Championship in Rajgir (2025). Her achievements have earned pride for her family and village, reversing local perceptions: her father and grandfather are now affectionately referred to as “Alpana’s papa” and “Alpana’s grandfather.”
Alpana credits the Bihar government’s ‘Bring a medal, get a reward’ scheme for changing attitudes toward girls in sports. Inspired by this, she now trains children in her village, hoping to nurture new talent.
With her sights set firmly on the 2026 Asian Games and ultimately the Olympics, Alpana continues rigorous practice, embodying resilience and ambition. Her story stands as a testament to family support, community encouragement, and determination against the odds.
