Olympic boxing champion Mary Kom opened up about the situation in Manipur during a conversation on Bigg Boss 20, saying she feels “helpless” and “embarrassed” about not being able to do more for her home state.
Speaking to fellow contestant Kanika Mann, Mary reflected on her achievements for India and her inability to contribute towards the safety and protection of people in Manipur amid the prolonged ethnic conflict.
“I could not do anything for the protection and safety of my Manipur. There are multiple tribes in Manipur; there should be unity among all. All should live peacefully with love,” Mary said.
‘What can I do? I am helpless’
The six-time world champion said that while she has achieved a great deal representing India, she feels powerless when it comes to addressing the situation in her state.
“What can I do? I am helpless. I am not a powerful person. I have achieved a lot for our country, but I could not do anything for my state. I feel very embarrassed,” she said.
Mary also expressed her sadness over the violence in Manipur, saying: “Manipur mein itna kuch ho gaya, main kuch nahi kar paayi. Dukh hota hai.”
She reiterated her appeal for people across communities to come together and live peacefully.
Mary’s statement reflects the anguish of someone who has achieved extraordinary things for India but feels unable to make a difference at home. Her words are personal, but the question they raise is political.
If a national sporting icon feels she has no power to protect her own state, who does?
The answer cannot simply be “the people of Manipur”.
The responsibility for restoring peace, protecting citizens and rebuilding trust ultimately belongs to the institutions entrusted with that job.
And that is why Mary Kom’s words deserve to be heard not merely as the confession of a grieving citizen, but as a reminder that the people of Manipur still deserve answers — and accountability — from those who have the power to provide them.
Manipur conflict
Manipur has faced prolonged ethnic violence involving the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, resulting in deaths, displacement and widespread disruption.
Mary’s comments on Bigg Boss 20 reflected her personal anguish over the situation and her desire for peace and unity in the state.
The boxer has previously spoken about her strong connection with Manipur, the state where she was born and raised and which has remained closely associated with her sporting journey.
The Manipur crisis has continued to generate deaths, displacement and deep social divisions. The Centre has repeatedly faced criticism over its handling of the situation, including questions about the pace and effectiveness of its response.
Priyanka Chopra sends Mary Kom a special message
Mary Kom’s entry into Bigg Boss 20 was also marked by a special message from Priyanka Chopra, who portrayed the boxing champion in the 2014 biographical film Mary Kom.
During the premiere, Chopra sent a video message wishing Mary well for her reality show journey.
“Inka knockout na bohot bhaari hai. Mary aap jaisi jaisi hai waisi rahie. Khule dil se kheliye,” Chopra said, encouraging Mary to remain herself and play the game with an open heart.
Mary’s appearance on Bigg Boss 20 has brought a different dimension to her public life, with the sporting icon discussing not only her achievements but also her emotional connection to the situation in Manipur.