From “No” to Team India: Sadhana’s Inspiring Journey
Sadhana’s journey is far more than the story of a young girl achieving her dream- it is a powerful reminder of what belief, opportunity, and perseverance can accomplish. It is a story of courage, resilience, and the life-changing impact of access to education and opportunity.
On the recommendation of a niece, Sadhana’s mother brought her three daughters to Anupshahr to enrol them at Pardada Pardadi. For some, it may have been a daunting decision, but for her mother, who was determined for the future of her daughters, it seemed a natural step.
From being a student at Pardada Pardadi to becoming a Team India player, Sadhana’s story has had many remarkable milestones.
The story first changed in November 2022, when the basketball coach at Pardada Pardadi spotted Sadhana during one of his rounds in the school. Tall, athletic and full of promise, she caught his eye as someone with exceptional potential if she committed herself to the sport. However, on being asked if she’d like to try basketball, she had a very simple answer – No.
However, the coach, who said he was initially “taken aback”, persuaded her to try the game for just seven days. The rest is history. Once she stepped onto the court, she chose never to leave it.
As her interest grew, so did her dedication. It started paying off too. With her relentless hard work, she qualified for numerous competitions, leaving her mark wherever she went. Each success brought accolades and opened new doors.
To date, Sadhana has represented her State at National Basketball Championships 10 times, and earned the title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) in three of them. As a recognition of her talent, she was recently selected to represent India at the FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026 in Bangkok. She performed exceptionally well, winning the admiration of her peers, and was named the ‘Most Improved Player’ by the Indian Coach.
While the entire Pardada Pardadi Team expressed their happiness for her, Sadhana felt proud to have fulfilled Sam Sir’s dream (Pardada Pardadi Founder) – to have a girl from Pardada Pardadi to represent India.
Her mother continues to credit Sam Sir and Pardada Pardadi for Sadhana’s success, but she and her family deserve the recognition for their resilience and unwavering dedication. She brought her three daughters and rented a house in Anupshahr for their future, while their father, a farmer, continues to work in their hometown and provide the support that helps Sadhana focus on her dream and game. “I dream of one day representing the Senior Indian Women’s Basketball Team. I will forever be grateful to my coach and Pardada Pardadi who stood by me on every step” – Sadhana.
She hopes to inspire young girls from rural communities, bringing pride to her school, her district, and the nation through her achievements on the basketball court