Few in India have cared to understand the struggles of the Siddi community. One amongst them, Leena Antho Siddi, has braved multiple barriers to become one of India’s most promising wrestling talents.
LEENA BELONGS TO THE SIDDI COMMUNITY KNOWN FOR THEIR AFRICAN ROOTS
Leena belongs to India’s Siddi community, who, with around 50,000 members, traces its roots to Bantu peoples brought centuries ago as slaves, indentured servants, or migrants. Primarily in Karnataka, Gujarat, and Goa, they exhibit a vibrant, blended culture. Though facing historical marginalization, Siddis contribute significantly, excelling in fields like music, sports, and martial arts. Despite recognition as a Scheduled Tribe, challenges persist regarding education, access to resources, and combating discrimination.
A few decades back, SAI, the Indian sports governing body, attempted to identify athletes from the Siddi community, who have African ancestry, as potential runners for the national team. The underlying belief was that their genetic heritage granted them a natural advantage in running. While not a runner, Leena has joined the likes of Indian National Men’s Football Team goalkeeper Juje Sidi to represent the community at the national and international stage.
Proud of this daughter of Haliyal! Congratulations to Leena Siddi 👏👏
Leena has won Mahila Karnataka Kesari award at wrestling championship in 59-76 kg category being held in Dharawad.
Hope this will inspire more girls in rural areas to take up sports#wrestling #WomenInSport pic.twitter.com/KOv7igUtDu— R V Deshpande (@RV_Deshpande) February 25, 2020
WRESTLING HAS PROVIDED HER THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEAVE THE FORESTS
As a child, Leena would be excited to learn the news of a neighbour or member of an extended family would get married, as it would mean a day out of the forest of Haliyal taluk in Karnataka. His father always had a dream to have one of his children join wrestling dream, especially since watching Sushil Kumar win the Bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “My father would take us along so we could have a proper meal, after days. His struggle in my regard ended when I joined a sports hostel where I was fed well. When he watched Sushil Kumar win the Beijing Olympics bronze, he had decided that his next-born would join wrestling, compete at the Olympics, and never go hungry. Now I win village dangals and earn enough to feed my family,” she stated to Indian Express.
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Leena narrowly missed out on the Bronze medal on the 68kg freestyle category of the WFI Nationals in Pune. As WFI is currently suspended, held between 29th and 31st January, 2024, have been criticized for having no value.
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