From Hoshiarpur to Limassol: Manisha’s journey of hard work and dedication
Manisha was born in Muggowal, a village in the district of Hoshiarpur, Punjab. She started playing football at the age of 13, after being introduced to the sport by her physical education teacher, Brahmjit Singh, who spotted her talent and encouraged her to pursue her passion. She studied at Sant Attar Singh Khalsa Senior Secondary School and graduated from Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women.
She faced many challenges and obstacles along the way, such as financial instability, family issues, and social stigma. Her father was involved in an accident that left him bedridden, and her mother had to work as a domestic helper to support the family. Manisha had to balance her studies, household chores, and football training, often travelling long distances to attend camps and tournaments. She also had to deal with the conservative mindset of some people in her village, who did not approve of a girl playing football.
But Manisha did not give up on her dreams. She made sacrifices, worked hard, and proved herself on the field. She represented India at various age-group levels, such as the U-17, U-18, and U-19 teams. She made her senior debut in 2019 and became a regular starter for the national team. She won the 2020–21 AIFF Women’s Emerging Footballer of the Year and the 2022–23 AIFF Women’s Player of the Year awards.
Making history with Gokulam Kerala and Apollon Ladies
Manisha joined the newly formed Indian Women’s League club Gokulam Kerala in 2018 and played a pivotal role in their success. She won two IWL titles with the club, scoring 21 goals in 24 matches. She also became the first Indian woman to score in a top-flight Asian competition, when she netted a goal in the 2021 AFC Women’s Club Championship match against FC Bunyodkor of Uzbekistan.
In July 2022, Manisha made a historic move to Cypriot First Division club Apollon Ladies, becoming the fourth Indian woman to be signed by an overseas club. She adapted quickly to the new environment and impressed with her skills and attitude. She scored six goals in 17 matches for the club, helping them win the domestic treble of the league, cup, and super cup. She also became the first Indian to play and score in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, when she came on as a substitute and found the net in a 7-0 win over WFC Samegrelo of Georgia in the qualifying round. She was included in the 2022–23 Pancyprian Footballers Association (PASP) women’s team of the season.
Inspiring the next generation of Indian footballers
Manisha is not only a star player, but also a role model for many young girls in India who aspire to play football. She has shown that with determination, perseverance, and hard work, anything is possible. She has also broken stereotypes and barriers, and opened new doors for Indian footballers in Europe. She has inspired the next generation of Indian footballers to follow their dreams and achieve their goals.
Manisha is not satisfied with her achievements. She wants to keep improving, learning, and growing as a player and a person. She wants to make her country proud and contribute to the development of Indian football. She wants to be the best version of herself.
Manisha Kalyan is not just a footballer. She is a legend in the making.
