Transgender Nandini Sindhi Wins National Gold in Ice Stock Sport

Nandini’s early life was filled with challenges. She lost both her parents at a very young age, leaving her responsible for supporting her entire family. While other children enjoyed carefree lives, she carried emotional and financial burdens far beyond her age. Growing up as a transgender child in a conservative society, she faced taunts, humiliation, exclusion, and discrimination. She was denied dignity, denied acceptance, and even denied employment opportunities simply because of her gender identity. With no support and no job prospects, she was forced to beg on trains just to survive.

During one of her most difficult phases, a member of the transgender community helped her understand the realities of society and the importance of inner strength. She later found shelter through Garima Greh NGO, but when the center shut down unexpectedly, she again faced uncertainty. Eventually, she joined the broader transgender community, yet the discrimination did not stop.

Determined to create a life of dignity for herself and others, Nandini began taking care of displaced transgender children and youth through the space earlier managed by Garima Greh’s Sartar Home. During this time, she met Msk Pankaj, a mentor from Garima Greh who played a crucial role in transforming her life. He introduced her to dance training and continued to guide her with genuine care.

Nandini recalls this turning point with deep gratitude:

“It was Msk Pankaj Sir who first told us about Ice Stock and took us to learn it. We all first met at the Garima Greh shelter home, where he used to train children for free in dance, singing, and other activities. Later, he called Manish Sir to teach us this sport and spoke to the Ice Stock Director to waive our fees. He gave us a chance to move forward and requested the association to support us. I thank him from my heart—no one does this much for transgender people.”

— Transgender athlete Nandini Sindhi

Through this support system, Nandini met Ice Stock Director Sakshi Sharma and coaches Sameer and Manish Bhati, who believed in her potential. Their guidance became the bridge between her struggles and her rising sports career.

Her journey in Ice Stock Sport began in 2024 when she won a Silver Medal at the District Championship. She soon advanced to the State Championship, winning Gold, and later competed in the 11th National Ice Stock Championship 2025 in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, where she secured Silver and Bronze among participants from 22 states.

But Nandini’s dream was clear—she wanted national gold.

On 12 August 2025, at an Ice Stock State Championship hosted by Vivekananda Global University, she achieved two Gold Medals. With renewed confidence, she competed in the Samar Stock National Championship 2025 in Agra, where athletes from 14 states participated. In a tough final match against Gujarat, Nandini and her team secured a spectacular victory by 8 points, finally winning the National Gold Medal she had worked so hard for.

Today, Nandini aims to represent India on the international stage and bring home a gold medal for the country. She expresses heartfelt gratitude to the Ice Stock Association, Director Sakshi Sharma, Manish Bhati, Sameer Sir, and especially Msk Pankaj, whose support changed the direction of her life.

Nandini’s journey is a powerful reminder that resilience can overcome prejudice, and determination can break every barrier. Her story serves as an inspiration for every individual who dares to rise above society’s limitations and fight for their dreams.