Kiran Thakur

Meet Kiran Thakur, the stalwart Right Corner Defender for the Himalayan Tahrs in the JSG Women's Yuva Kabaddi Series 2024. Born on June 22, 2001, in Bathoh, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, Kiran's kabaddi journey commenced at the age of 14, under the influence of her father, Sri Ramanand Thakur, a former state-level kabaddi player. Encouraged by her father's legacy in the sport, coupled with the inspiration from seniors playing kabaddi in her school, Kiran found her calling in the adrenaline-pumping world of kabaddi. Honing her skills as a Right Corner Defender, Kiran is recognized for her formidable Block moves, solidifying the defense of the Himalayan Tahrs. Her initial coaches, Sheela, Subhash, and Kamlesh, laid the foundation for her kabaddi prowess, with Meher Singh Verma contributing to her early development. Currently under the guidance of Pankaj Kumar and Satvir Kaur at SAI Dharmshala, Kiran continues to refine her game. Kiran's family, rooted in agriculture and education, includes her mother, Srimathi Sunita Devi, a teacher, and siblings, Raksha (elder sister) and Anmol (young brother), with the latter following her footsteps in kabaddi and representing at the Junior State level. Her favorite player, Jyoti Thakur, serves as both a source of inspiration and admiration for Kiran. Jyoti's hardworking nature, coupled with her caring demeanor, resonates with Kiran on a personal level. Beyond kabaddi, Kiran's athletic prowess extends to high jump, where she showcased her skills at the state level in 2014 in Bilaspur. Currently pursuing a BA degree, Kiran's kabaddi journey has seen representations at the school, college, district, state, and national levels. A standout moment in her career includes the National Games finals in 2023-2024 in Goa, where Kiran's back hold during defense left an indelible mark. Looking ahead, Kiran aspires to play kabaddi for the next 2 years and secure a job that aligns with her passion for the sport. Kiran Thakur's journey exemplifies resilience, family influence, and a commitment to elevating women's kabaddi in Himachal Pradesh and beyond.