Breaking gender barriers: The inspiring story of the Samata Cup

In a country where franchise leagues are all the rage, a one-of-kind grassroots initiative aimed at fostering gender equality is making waves in the heartland of Odisha.

The Samata Cup, a mixed-gender tournament, now in its second edition, is rapidly evolving into a tool for social change by engaging with boys and girls in and around Sambalpur.

Dr. Rita Mishra, the driving force behind Patang, told The Bridge that the tournament aims to break social barriers.

The genesis

According to Dr. Mishra, the idea was born out of an eight-year-long journey of working with young girls and later boys in rural areas under a program called 'Real Man'.

The program struggled initially to connect with boys until the universal appeal of sports, and football in particular, became an inevitable tool to galvanise the movement.

“Every village has a football team,” said Dr. Mishra.

“We realized that sport could be a catalyst for conversations around gender equality.”

Last year, the tournament began with 10 teams from the Sambalpur district. And this year, 20 teams from five districts - Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Bardhaman, and Deogarh - have taken the field.

With over 300 participants, the 2024 edition features 188 boys and 141 girls, marshalled by both men and women referees.

Breaking stereotypes

The initiative is slowly but surely breaking stereotypes about boys and girls playing sports together.

Dr. Mishra highlighted that the initial reluctance from both boys and parents has now given way to acceptance and excitement.

“Parents from humble backgrounds are now discussing their daughters practicing in shorts, which was once unthinkable,” she said.

Law enforcement and local authorities who were initially worried about aggression are now supporting the initiative.

The project also features performances by differently abled children, highlighting its dedication to promoting equality and inclusivity.

To amplify its impact, the Samata Cup is collaborating with schools and colleges to engage communities through debates, essays, and drawing competitions while using sports as a vehicle for gender equality.

Additionally, methods like processions and cultural performances are being used to bring people together and start conversations.

Building an equitable society

Buoyed by the reception, Dr. Mishra plans to expand the Samata Cup to the state level next year and thereafter aspires to take it national.

“The ultimate goal is to normalize boys and girls playing together," she said, while a rise smile.

The Samata Cup shows how grassroot efforts can effect societal change.

Through sport, Dr. Mishra and Patang are creating a new story of equality where boys and girls join hands as teammates and work together to create a new equitable society.