Driven by a desire to secure her daughter's education, 47-year-old Ramabai Ranveer from Ambajogai, Maharashtra, recently captured headlines by winning a local marathon—competing barefoot and dressed in a traditional saree.
Pure Grit Against the Odds
The race, titled Amrit Daud, was organized as part of the Amrit Mahotsav celebrations by Bharatiya Shikshan Prasarak Sanstha. Ramabai lined up alongside younger competitors equipped with modern tracksuits and running shoes, looking like an ordinary participant in her saree and everyday slippers.
Once the race began, however, her determination set her apart. When her slippers began slipping mid-run, she didn't hesitate—she kicked them off, held them in her hands, and kept running barefoot. Navigating roads strewn with stones while managing her saree, she steadily outpaced the competition to cross the finish line first.
A Victory with a Purpose
Her inspiring win earned enthusiastic applause from spectators and organizers alike. Ramabai took home the top cash prize of ₹3,000, every rupee of which she plans to use directly toward her daughter's school fees.
