Kolkata Thunder Strikers become the first team in Women's Handball League

Pavna Sports Venture introduces Kolkata Thunder Strikers (KTS) as a franchise team for the inaugural Women’s Handball League (WHL), which will kick off early next year.

Representing the spirit and cultural vibrancy of West Bengal, the Kolkata Thunder Strikers, owned by Kasturi Mitra, a first-generation entrepreneur, aims to take sports to the next level in West Bengal and Eastern India.

Passionate about empowering female athletes, Kolkata Thunder Strikers not only aims to redefine the traditional roles for women through the game of handball.

It is dedicated to developing a strong, competitive team that will strive to revive city-based sports teams in the State.

Priya Jain, Executive Director of Pavna Industries and Director of Pavna Sports Venture, welcomed the Kolkata outfit to the League.

“We are delighted to welcome the Kolkata Thunder Strikers to the Women’s Handball League. Representing one of India’s most fervent sporting regions, KTS is set to tap into a deep well of talent and forge a strong connection with the vibrant and passionate sporting cultural scene of West Bengal,” said Jain.

“Their presence will not only enhance the competitive edge of the league but also bring a new level of excitement and intensity to the matches. We eagerly anticipate seeing them inspire future athletes and play a pivotal role in the growth of women’s handball across India.”

Kolkata Thunder Strikers (KTS) is one of the six teams in India’s inaugural women’s handball championship.

The team will host training camps, organize school tournaments, and engage the community through outreach programs, social media, and fan-focused events.

Speaking about their entry into the League, Kasturi Mitra, owner of KTS, said, “We are deeply committed to promoting women's sports and contributing to advancing handball in India. Our focus goes beyond building a competitive team. We aim to create opportunities for young athletes and help the sport grow at every level.

“Off the court, we’re excited to engage with the community and cultivate a passionate fan base that shares our love for handball and helps build an ecosystem for the game across India.”

Organized under the auspices of the South Asian Handball Federation, and the Asian Handball Federation, and supported by the Handball Association of India, the Women’s Handball League is a platform aimed at growing the sport in India.

They will announce the remaining five teams soon as well.

With a vision to inspire young girls, build a strong grassroots network, and create more opportunities for women in sports, the WHL is committed to promoting inclusivity and raising the profile of women’s sports across the country.