She is just 21 years old and a girl of very few words. She believes in the saying ‘Action speaks louder than Words’ and time and again has proved that she belongs to the squared circle. Winner of CWG 2022 Bronze medal in (60kgs), she is a tough nut to crack and does not shy away from throwing a punch irrespective of who is facing. Coming from the state Bhiwani, a district in Haryana which is known for producing great boxers including Vijendar Singh and Akhil Kumar is incidentally the first ever woman boxer to be inducted in Indian Army.
We got hold of her in an exclusive chat during the National Games in Gujarat. Here are the excerpts.
Q. You are now a Havildar in the Corps of Military Police. You are the first Indian female boxer to be inducted in the Army. What do you have to say to that?
A. I feel proud saying it time and again that “I am Havildar Jasmine Lamboria, JAI HIND.”
It brings immense joy to me and my family as my Dada ji (grandfather) was a captain in the Indian Army (Capt. Chandrabhan Singh) So, it is like carrying the legacy forward and also fulfilling my dream to serve my country. Even Neeraj Bhaiya (Neeraj Chopra, Indian athlete in javelin throw and National record holder). He fared so well in the Olympics and also represented the Army. So, I promise to follow all the rules and regulations of the Indian Army and make everyone proud.
Q. You dominated Telangana’s Manasa Matterparthi in a unanimous 5-0 verdict. Tell us about it?
A. Yes it was a massive fight with her, a bit challenging too but in the third round I won via RSC. (Referee Stopped Contest)
Q. Your fight is still going on and we will be able to see the finals of the same on 12th October, what hopes do you have and what strategies do you have in mind?
A. I have high hopes from my remaining three fights. I am well prepared and ready to give a good knock out to the opponent in every fight. I am very positive about winning a gold medal here.
Q. So, how is Gujarat treating you and how do you find Gujaratis?
A. Gujarat is fantastic and very vibrant. The people here are very humble, ready to listen to you and help at any given point of time.
Q. How do you see these National Games, as other sports personalities too have lauded the efforts made by the government.
A. National Games 2022 has been very well organised by the government. It is no less than any international sports extravaganza. The food, the transport, the hotels and the hospitality are just up to the mark. I will always cherish these moments and look forward to attending and performing at more events like these.