Ashmita Chaliha’s story is one of remarkable transformation. From a sheltered and introverted life in Guwahati, she has risen to become an ambitious competitor on the international badminton stage. This journey has seen her move from rationalising her losses as unavoidable to fighting tooth and nail for every point against top-tier opponents.
Ashmita’s rise to prominence
Chaliha first gained attention at the 2019 Guwahati Nationals. Her aggressive southpaw style of play caught the eye of Morten Frost, a Danish badminton legend in attendance. This marked the beginning of her ascent in the sport. However, her rise to prominence was not devoid of personal quirks and comforts that kept her grounded.
Back home, Ashmita’s mother, Geetali Chaliha, has a minor gripe: every time Ashmita returns from an international tournament, she brings back fridge magnets as souvenirs. But Ashmita’s real effort in souvenir shopping is reserved for Eddy, the family’s beloved dog, who gets the best toys from Hamleys.
Life in Guwahati
Growing up, Ashmita led a quiet, comfortable life in Guwahati. Her days revolved around her twin passions: badminton and her dogs. Two years ago, her routine included rigorous training sessions, albeit in the familiar and somewhat cushy environment of her hometown. She enjoyed her time playing racing video games and indulging in her favourite foods like prawns, lobster, mango rice, and chicken rolls, all conveniently delivered via food apps. Family vacations and Durga Puja celebrations in Sukhsagar, West Bengal, added a festive touch to her otherwise tranquil life.
Despite this seemingly laid-back lifestyle, Ashmita’s potential was undeniable. As she began to compete internationally, she realised that her talent and hard work could take her far beyond the boundaries of her hometown. No longer content with merely participating, she started to dig deeper, showing a determination to win and improve constantly.
The evolving mindset
Ashmita’s transformation is not just about her improved performance on the court but also about her evolving mindset. She no longer views losses against big names as inevitable but as opportunities to learn and grow. Her journey from being a content and introverted child to a fierce competitor is inspiring. It shows that with the right mix of talent, hard work, and determination, one can rise above comfort zones to achieve greater heights.
Today, Ashmita Chaliha stands as a solid proof to the power of ambition and resilience. Her story encourages many young athletes to push their limits and strive for excellence, no matter where they start.