March 8 is celebrated worldwide as International Women’s Day. The day is observed to celebrate the achievements of women and to ensure that everyone is in it together to allow a level playing field for women around the globe. It is in a broader sense a very small attempt at celebrating womanhood and breaking the gender bias that continues to be prevalent in society,

In a sense, sports has always championed equality and stood for such ideals. Yet for a long time, sports as a career option for women was frowned upon. However, not anymore. The likes of Mithali Raj, Saina Nehwal, Mirabai Chanu, MC Mary Kom, PV Sindhu, Jhulan Goswami, Sania Mirza, Lovlina Borgohain, Karnam Malleswari, PT Usha and Avani Lekhara among other Indian women athletes have definitely shown the way to the rest of the women that dreams can be fulfilled even while battling patriarchy and other infrastructural deficits concerning women’s sports in India.

On International Women’s Day, several members of the sports fraternity have come forward to share their message of motivation and celebration of the annual occasion.

Here are some of the reactions on social media:

“Women have achieved incredible feats in several areas, including sports. Here’s a tribute to each and every woman who is incredible in her own way and an inspiration for many,” cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar wrote on social media alongside a video in which he can be seen sharing his insights of the game with some young girls.

Commonwealth Games Gold medallist Wrestler Geeta Phogat also took to social media to share a message. She tweeted, “”Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world.” #HappyWomensDay #dhakadgirls.”

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah was also among those from the sporting community to share a message on the occasion. “On #InternationalWomensDay, greetings to all the indomitable women in India and across the world. In the past year we have seen plethora of women achievers in various fields including sports. Looking forward to cherish many more achievements of #NariShakti,” he tweeted.

Meanwhile, Mithali Raj, who is currently leading India in the ongoing Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, also shared a picture of herself along with her teammates. “My best wishes to all the lovely women out there today and everyday. Always remember…you are incredible! #InternationalWomensDay,” she captioned the image.

Track and field legend PT Usha also shared a post. Popularly known as the Payyoli Express, she wrote: “Glad to be awarded the Eternal Woman India Awards 2022. I believe that everyday, and not just today, is Women’s Day. From giving birth to many daily activities, contribution of women in the society is unparalleled. Greetings to all.”