Watch as President Droupadi Murmu and ace shuttler Saina Nehwal play badminton at Rashtrapati Bhavan

President Droupadi Murmu participated in a friendly badminton match with renowned shuttler Saina Nehwal at Rashtrapati Bhavan's Badminton Court on July 10. The event highlighted President Murmu's passion for sports and celebrated India's prowess in badminton, especially among women athletes who have made significant global impacts.

The match was part of the 'Her Story – My Story' lecture series featuring women Padma Awardees. Saina Nehwal, an iconic Indian sportsperson honored with the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards, expressed her gratitude, describing the experience of playing with President Murmu as a memorable moment.



Earlier, President Murmu unveiled the prestigious Durand Cup, President's Cup, and Shimla Trophy at Rashtrapati Bhavan. These unveilings marked the beginning of the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup football tournament, scheduled from July 27 to August 31, signaling the start of India's football season.

Saina Nehwal, originally from Haryana, gained international recognition by winning the BWF World Junior Championships in 2008. She became the first Indian woman to reach the Olympic quarter-finals that same year. Her outstanding achievements include the Arjuna Award in 2009 and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award in 2010.


President Droupadi Murmu's participation in the badminton match with Saina Nehwal underscores her genuine interest in sports and games. The 'Her Story – My Story' lecture series not only honors accomplished women like Saina Nehwal but also aims to inspire audiences with their stories of resilience and achievement.

The unveiling of the Durand Cup, President's Cup, and Shimla Trophy at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a significant event in India's sporting calendar, heralding the beginning of the football season and celebrating the nation's rich sporting heritage.

(With inputs from agencies)