In the ring with Mary Kom

[1]

Mary Kom with her husband and kids

I had tears in my eyes right through the fight that got Mary Kom the bronze at the London Olympics 2012. Every Indian rooted for her — amidst a shining bevy ofmedals, her’s was the most celebrated.

Mary Kom comes from a tribal community of Manipur and epitomizes a woman, who despite all odds, managed to triumph. She was fighting in a class above her weight and she managed to trounce them. She has worked very hard and so has her entire family.
Mary Kom’s journey is the stuff of dreams and movies. Inspired by Manipuri boxer Dingko Singh, Mary Kom gave up books for boxing gloves, hiding her interests from her family. Her victory in the Manipur state women’s boxing championship in 2000 brought her forte to the fore. “When I started, my male friends would say it is not a woman’s sport. But I say, if men can do it, then why not women. My parents soon considered my request and let me follow my dreams and met all my financial needs even though the means were extremely difficult.” If growing up in politically challenged state of Manipur was hard, the road to the London Games was harder.
“After marriage I was afraid I wouldn’t be allowed to pursue my dream, but I received the same love and permission from my in-laws and husband. Marriage and motherhood was indeed challenging, but it turned out to be my strength. Time brought forth greater obstacles when my lovely and naughty twins Rechungvar and Khupneivar came with greater responsibilities. Even my father did not believe I would be able to handle it all. However, my husband sees to them and he never let me feel even for a moment that my absence has done any harm to our family.” After a two-year sabbatical that saw her start a family, Mary Kom came back stronger, to win the World Championship twice.
“The hardest part of my training is being away from my kids, even though I should not worry with a husband like Onler and in-laws who have been so supportive in helping me manage my home. Onler is always there to look out for the family’s needs.”
Onler Kom, Mary’s silent and supportive husband might be modest about his contribution, but he played a crucial role in her growth. He stayed at home and catered to their twin sons while Mary travelled the world trying to bring the family laurels. “Everyone thinks she made it because of my support, but I am just doing my ‘homework’. It is all about understanding, respecting each other’s feelings and being there during times of need. I can cook and wash and do everything because my love for Mary makes me do so. This is what we vowed for. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in controlling the one you love and suppressing your wife, but rejoicing in her triumph,” says Onler.
“No matter what your career is, competition has become so tough and the only thing that matters is success. Only few can achieve success in such a competitive environment. I am proud to see that, after my wins, many people from my native are embracing boxing as their career. Be sincere towards your goal always. Work hard and never give up. Remember God works in disguise,” says Mary.