Photographs: Murad Sezer/Reuters
'I am a fan of the co-existence of different castes and creeds in my beloved country.'
'As a nation, we have compromised on truth. India resides in its villages and I too hail from a small village. We don't know who to blame regarding the diverging of developmental funds because development works do not reach rural areas,' says Olympic bronze medalist and five time Boxing World Champion MC Mary Kom.
I long to see a peaceful India with prosperity and sincerity
I like India's rich culture. I am a fan of the co-existence of different castes and creeds in my beloved country. It is so rich and even more enhanced by its varied beliefs, attire, music, festivals and arts. Therefore, it is its diversity that makes this country unique.
I take great pleasure in saying that we are a democracy, and not only that, but the fact that we are the world's largest democracy.
Though as a nation we are a kind and humble people -- we work hard for our daily bread and butter -- issues like gender discrimination, female infanticide, pollution and global warming need to be addressed immediately.
As a sportsperson, I have a soft corner for the development of a sporting culture in this country. We need to take sports to the next level so that we can excel at international levels.
I think as a nation, we have compromised on truth. India resides in its villages and I too hail from a small village. We don't know who to blame regarding the diverging of developmental funds because developmental works do not reach rural areas.
We have a very lax behaviour towards our historical monuments. Sometimes, I feel there is a lack of belonging.
We also have other great challenges like crime, poverty, and corruption to fight with.
Only awareness can save us. Just knowing our fundamental rights and duties won't help us. We need to execute them.
When I am not travelling for boxing tournaments, I like to explore India -- I enjoy Shimla and Goa. I will always have a special place for my home state -- Manipur! I cannot stay away from home for long.
My favourite Indian icon is Amitabh Bachchan. I have great respect for our armed forces who make sacrifices at the cost of their own lives. They are the heroes of the country.
Boxer MC Mary Kom won the bronze medal at the London Olympics in 2012. She has won gold at the World Championships five times.
'Magnificent Mary' spoke to Laxmi Negi.
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