Indian women’s hockey has experienced a quiet yet powerful revolution over the past decade. The team that once stood in the shadows of its male counterparts now commands respect on the international stage.
At the heart of this transformation are passionate athletes whose dedication has rewritten India’s hockey narrative. Among them, Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya stand tall—not just as skilled players but as inspiring stories of resilience, hard work, and national pride.
Two-time Olympian Vandana Katariya reported her retirement from universal hockey on Tuesday, bringing down the window ornaments on her recognized career crossing 15 a long time.
This choice wasn’t simple, but I know it’s the right time. Hockey has been my life for as long as I can keep in mind, and wearing the Indian shirt was the most noteworthy respect, Vandana, who played her final coordinate for India in the Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Professional Alliance 2024-25 in February, said.
Indian Women Hockey Player Manpreet Kaur And Vandana Katariya
But each travel has its course, and I take off with colossal pride, appreciation, and adore for the wear. Indian hockey is in awesome hands, and I will continuously be its greatest supporter,” she included.
Related Article:The Future of Indian Hockey: Innovation, Fitness, and Global Strategy
A legend in women’s hockey, Vandana Katariya, who was a forward by exchange, resigns as India’s most-capped women’s hockey player. The Indian hockey player scored 158 objectives in 320 universal matches after making her make a big appearance for India in 2009.
A key cog in India’s notable fourth-place wrap up at Tokyo 2020, Vandana remains the to begin with and as it were Indian lady to score a hat-trick at the Olympic Diversions. She gotten three against South Africa in Japan.
She moreover spoken to India at the Rio 2016 Olympics, two FIH Hockey Women’s World Mugs in 2018 and 2022, three sequential Commonwealth Recreations from 2014 to 2022 as well as three progressive Asian Recreations from 2014 to 2022.
The 32-year-old Vandana played an fundamentally part in making a difference India secure gold decorations at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in 2016 and 2023 as well as the FIH Hockey Women’s Countries Glass in 2022.
Vandana Katariya too won silver decorations at the Asian Diversions 2018, Women's Asian Champions Trophy Japan 2013 and Women's Asian Champions Trophy Donghae 2018.
Her enhanced career too saw her claim bronze awards at the 2022 Commonwealth Diversions, the 2014 and 2023 Asian Diversions and a third-place wrap up at the FIH Hockey Master Association 2021-22. Katariya’s colossal commitments to Indian hockey driven to her being regarded with a few of India’s most prestigious grants, counting the Arjuna Grant in 2021 and the Padma Shri in 2022.
Rising Through the Ranks
Both Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya come from humble beginnings, but their journeys highlight what sheer determination and self-belief can accomplish. Manpreet Kaur, known for her swift ball control and agility, emerged from the grassroots hockey system in Punjab.
While Punjab has produced many male hockey legends, the path for a woman was anything but smooth. Fighting societal barriers and limited training resources, Manpreet made her way up through state-level competitions and eventually earned her call-up to the national squad. Her speed on the wing and intelligent play-making make her a crucial asset in India’s forward line.
Read Also:Why Hockey Deserves More Attention Than Cricket in India?
On the other hand, Vandana Katariya, hailing from Roshnabad, Uttarakhand, has been a household name since her stellar performances in international tournaments. Her story is a textbook example of talent meeting opportunity.
Coming from a modest background, Vandana had to push through financial struggles and societal skepticism. Today, she holds the distinction of being the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick in an Olympic hockey match—an iconic moment from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics that ignited pride across the nation.
Challenges On and Off the Field
The journeys of Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya haven't been without personal and professional hurdles. While male athletes often receive widespread recognition and support, women in Indian sports still battle for equal facilities, coaching, sponsorships, and visibility.
Manpreet, despite her performance, has often found herself navigating between proving her worth and balancing limited exposure. However, she’s remained focused, continuing to hone her game and contribute whenever given the chance.
Vandana’s challenges took a darker turn when she faced casteist slurs after India’s semi-final loss in the Tokyo Olympics. But instead of breaking her, the incident fueled her resolve.
She responded on the field, not with anger but excellence—proving that resilience speaks louder than hate. Vandana’s grace and determination have since made her not just a sports star but also a role model for young girls from marginalized communities.
Key Contributions and Achievements:-
In recent years, both players have contributed significantly to India's performance on the world stage. Their presence has added depth and balance to the national squad.
Manpreet Kaur has earned accolades for her consistent runs along the flank and her ability to create goal-scoring opportunities from tight situations. While she may not always headline the stats sheet, her game sense and tenacity are vital for India's strategy, particularly in high-pressure matches.
Vandana Katariya has become a linchpin in India’s attack. Her goals, often at crucial junctures, have helped the team upset stronger opponents. Apart from her Olympic hat-trick, she was instrumental in India’s performances at the Asian Games and the FIH Hockey World Cup. She also served as the captain for various junior and senior-level tournaments, showcasing leadership on and off the field.
The bond between Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya reflects not just teamwork but also mutual respect. Their coordination and understanding on the pitch are evident, especially in build-up plays and counter-attacks. Together, they represent the depth and talent now flourishing in the Indian women’s hockey setup.
Impact Beyond the Game
One of the most heartening aspects of their journey is the impact it’s had beyond the field. Girls in rural India, particularly from states like Punjab, Uttarakhand, Haryana, and Odisha, now have real-life heroes to look up to. Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya are not just athletes—they are symbols of aspiration.
Their success is encouraging more families to support daughters in sports. Coaches and local clubs are also more motivated to scout female talent and invest time in grooming them. The ripple effect is real: school-level competitions are growing, academies are starting to focus more on women’s programs, and state governments are taking notice.
Moreover, both athletes have shown how sports can be a tool for social change. Vandana’s vocal support for inclusivity and women’s rights has given her a platform much larger than hockey. Similarly, Manpreet’s work in mentoring young players in Punjab is a quiet but impactful contribution that strengthens the game’s grassroots.
What’s Next for These Champions?
With the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon, Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya are expected to play pivotal roles in India’s campaign. While the team aims for a podium finish, fans and experts alike believe that the experience and drive of these two players could be game-changers.
Vandana continues to be one of the fittest and sharpest strikers in the squad. Her goal-scoring instinct and tournament experience could prove crucial against teams like the Netherlands, Australia, and Germany.How Do I Know What Size Field Hockey Stick I Need?
Manpreet, though not always in the spotlight, has shown immense adaptability—playing as a winger, midfielder, and even as a defender when needed. Her versatility and calm demeanor under pressure give the coach tactical flexibility.
Final Thoughts
The journey of Indian women hockey player Manpreet Kaur and Vandana Katariya is a powerful reminder that talent knows no boundaries, but it takes courage and commitment to rise above the odds. They’ve inspired a generation, brought global attention to Indian women’s hockey, and proven that dreams born in small towns can echo on the world stage.
As they continue to script new chapters in their careers, their legacy is already being written—not just in record books but in the hearts of millions who dare to believe in something bigger.
