FPJ Exclusive | 'People Don't Even Know Our Sport': Anjali Devi's Mission To Make Boccia Recognised In India Ahead Of Asian Para Games

Indian boccia athlete Anjali Devi is set to compete for her nation at the upcoming Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Beyond her personal aspirations, Anjali carries the responsibility of raising awareness about boccia, a sport that remains relatively obscure in India. In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, Anjali shared her emotions as she prepares to represent India at this prestigious continental event.

She emphasized that her participation goes beyond personal achievement; it's a chance to showcase the existence of boccia and the potential of Indian athletes in the sport. Anjali admitted that representing India at such a significant event evokes a range of emotions, including pride, fear, and emotional turmoil. She acknowledged the challenge of competing against some of Asia's top athletes while also feeling proud, excited, and emotionally invested in her performance.

For Anjali, the opportunity represents a platform not only to showcase her skills but also to inspire greater interest in boccia. Boccia is a precision ball sport designed for athletes with significant physical impairments. Players must throw, kick, or use assistive equipment to get their balls as close as possible to a target ball called the "jack."

The game demands precision, strategy, and composure, making every match a testament to the athletes' abilities and mental fortitude.