Mumbai- For Khupneivar Kom and Rechungvar Kom, their mother Mary Kom is more than a celebrated boxing champion. Growing up alongside one of India’s most accomplished sportspersons, they say she taught them that true courage is about continuing to move forward even when life becomes difficult.
The boxing legend’s sons said they have seen her display immense confidence inside the ring, but it was her life away from boxing that gave them a deeper understanding of what bravery means.
“We have seen her step into the boxing ring with confidence, but for us, her real strength has always been visible outside the ring. We have seen her face difficult situations, make sacrifices and still continue moving forward,” they said.
According to them, Mary Kom showed that courage does not mean being free from fear or hardship. Instead, it means finding the strength to keep pursuing one’s goals despite those challenges.
“Watching her fight for her dreams while also being there for our family has taught us what it truly means to be brave,” they added.
Her demanding international boxing career also meant that the family had to make sacrifices. Her sons recall periods when she was away from home for competitions and training, but said they understood the importance of her ambitions.
“There were times when we missed our mother because she had to travel for competitions or training, but we always understood how important her dreams were to her,” they said.
What stood out to them was her effort to balance her sporting commitments with motherhood. Despite her busy schedule, they said, she made time for them and ensured they never felt overlooked.
“She showed us that having a family does not mean giving up on your dreams, and having dreams does not mean loving your family any less. She found a way to carry both responsibilities with strength,” they added.
Away from the spotlight, Khupneivar and Rechungvar see a very different side of the woman known around the world as Mary Kom. To them, she is the mother who worries about them, guides them and continues to support their ambitions.
“To the world, she is Mary Kom, a champion and someone who has made history for India. But to us, she is simply our mother,” they said.
They said her collection of medals and achievements makes them proud, but understanding the sacrifices and determination behind those accomplishments has deepened their admiration for her.
“We have seen the person behind the medals — the mother who cares about us, supports us and always wants the best for her children. Her achievements make us incredibly proud, but knowing the sacrifices behind those achievements makes us admire her even more,” they concluded.
Mary Kom’s journey from Manipur to the highest levels of international boxing has made her a prominent figure in Indian sport, but for her sons, her most enduring legacy is the example she set at home — pursuing her ambitions while remaining committed to her family.
–IANS