Havildar Sakshi Ghanghas Chaudhary has captured the spotlight in Indian boxing with an impressive display at the national selection trials held in Patiala in May 2026. Competing in the women’s 51 kg category, her remarkable journey saw her defeat two prominent figures in Indian boxing, securing a coveted spot on the national team for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Sakshi’s ascent to prominence began in the semifinals, where she faced off against two-time world champion, Nikhat Zareen, emerging victorious through a 4-1 split decision. Following this, she showcased her dominance in the finals by cleanly beating reigning world and Asian champion, Minakshi Hooda, with a decisive 5-0 score. These victories not only mark a significant achievement for her career but also underscore her resolve and determination following years of hard work and challenges.
At just 25 years of age, Sakshi is a soldier-athlete serving as a Havildar in the Indian Army and hails from Dhanana village in Haryana’s Bhiwani district. This region is well-known for producing several notable boxers, and Sakshi’s journey echoes the spirit of champions like Olympic medallist Vijender Singh, who fueled her early passion for the sport.
Sakshi’s introduction to boxing came in 2012 when her father recognized her energetic nature and chose to guide her into the sport. Training under the seasoned coach Jagdish Singh Tarar at Bhiwani Boxing Club, she quickly began to make her mark, achieving a silver medal at the 7th Sub-Junior Haryana State Championships in 2012 and later claiming gold in subsequent state competitions. Her rapid progression included notable titles at the AIBA World Junior Women’s Championships and the World Youth Championships, solidifying her status as one of India’s elite young prospects.
Despite early successes, transitioning to the senior level proved challenging. After participating in numerous international senior events without striking gold, Sakshi faced a significant setback due to a shoulder injury in 2022. Instead of succumbing to despair, she transformed this obstacle into an opportunity for growth and resilience, eventually being recruited by the Indian Army under its Mission Olympic Programme.
Joining the Indian Army as a Recruit Havildar in the Corps of Military Police, Sakshi found a structured environment that enhanced her training and discipline while instilling a sense of service. The balance between military and sporting life instilled in her critical skills such as composure, tactical intelligence, and mental strength—key elements that led to her recent successes.
A notable milestone was her gold medal win at the World Boxing Cup in Kazakhstan in 2025, marking a historic achievement as the first Indian woman to do so in the competition. This victory not only showcased her tactical prowess but also bolstered her confidence as she prepared for trials at a lower weight category, a decision that required immense discipline and commitment.
In the May 2026 trials, having strategically moved down to the 51 kg category, Sakshi faced formidable opponents including two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen. With tactical precision, she utilized her reach and maintained composure to secure a split-decision victory. Additionally, her strategy against Minakshi Hooda was masterfully executed, leading to an undefeated performance throughout the trials.
With these wins, Baker Khushboo secured her place in two major international competitions. Her performance at the trials was not merely about winning; it illustrated a matured perspective towards pressure, bolstered by mental coaching that allowed her to manage anxiety during critical moments.
Sakshi’s narrative signifies the evolving role of women in both sports and the armed forces, serving as an inspiring figure for young girls across India. Her story emphasizes the perseverance needed to navigate the complexities of an athletic career, demonstrating that a delay in breakthrough moments can fuel a stronger comeback.
As she prepares to represent India on the international stage, her focus is now on refining her tactics and conditioning. With her recent performances shedding light on her potential, she is now seen as a serious contender poised to transform her selection into accolades.
The journey of Havildar Sakshi Ghanghas Chaudhary exemplifies courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Her recent triumphs have firmly established her as a name to watch in Indian boxing, ready to carry the nation’s hopes in future competitions.
