Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 27: India’s trailblazing judoka Rohit Majgul has spoken candidly about facing racial taunts during his formative years, revealing how comments about his appearance often left him hurt but ultimately strengthened his resolve.

“People think I am African,” Majgul said, recalling an incident from his teenage years that continues to linger in his memory.

During the national-level Under-17 championship held in Nadiad in 2019, Majgul had advanced to the final and was preparing for his bout when a section of spectators allegedly began hurling racist remarks at him.

His cousin and former judoka Afarudin Chovat recounted that some individuals in the crowd started calling him “African” and used other derogatory slurs while he was getting ready for the match.

For Majgul, it was not an isolated experience. “I have been called names — sometimes as abuse, sometimes teasingly — all my life because of my looks, the curly hair,” he said.

That particular day, however, proved especially difficult. “I was disturbed and felt very bad,” he admitted. “But I have surrounded myself with good people, good friends. They told me to ignore the noise and focus on my game.”

Despite the hurtful remarks, Majgul chose to channel his energy into his sport, refusing to let prejudice define him. His journey stands as a reminder of the resilience required not just to compete at the highest levels, but also to overcome societal biases off the mat.