Archive · 21 Aug 2025
Indian Athletes Discuss Hurdles Faced by Women in Sport
Two Indian athletes, Ashalata Devi (football) and Mira Erda (Formula 4 racing), shared their experiences in sports.
Ashalata faced challenges growing up, as her parents did not support her playing football initially because it was seen as a men's sport.
Mira, on the other hand, was encouraged by her father.
They both spoke about the need for more opportunities and fair pay for female athletes.
Ashalata pointed out that women footballers in India earn far less than men, which makes it difficult for them.
Both athletes want to see equal pay and equal chances for women in sports.
Ashalata Devi and Mira Erda discussed their journeys as women in sports.
Ashalata faced initial parental disapproval due to the perception of football being a male sport.
Mira's father supported her interest in motorsport, inspired by competition with her brothers.
Ashalata highlighted the pay disparity between male and female footballers in India.
Both athletes emphasized the importance of equal pay and opportunities for women in sports.
- Who
- Footballer Ashalata Devi and Formula 4 racer Mira Erda.
- What
- Discussions about the challenges and progress of women in sports.
- When
- During She Shakti 2025.
- Where
- Firstpost Sports.
- Why
- To raise awareness about the issues faced by women in sports.
Views of Ashalata Devi
Mira Erda's Perspective
Pay Disparity
Views of Ashalata Devi
Women in football face significant pay disparities.
Mira Erda's Perspective
Male footballers earn a much higher salary than their female counterparts.
- Sport
- Football and Formula 4 Racing
- Athletes
- Ashalata Devi, Mira Erda
- Ashalata's Achievement
- First Indian woman footballer to complete 100 international appearances
- Mira's Achievement
- First Indian woman to bag a podium in Formula 4
- Pay Disparity
- Female footballers earn ~5% of male footballers' salaries