PM Modi Celebrates PV Sindhu’s Japan Open Victory on ‘Mann Ki Baat’

In his 136th edition of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a moment to shine a spotlight on two of India’s recent sporting milestones. First up, he congratulated badminton ace PV Sindhu for clinching the Japan Open – a triumph that felt, to many, like watching history being written in real time.

Sindhu’s performance in Osaka was nothing short of vintage. Facing the home favourite, world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi, she powered through with two neat 21‑17 sets, sealing her first BWF Super 750 title and, more importantly, becoming the very first Indian shuttler to lift the Japan Open trophy. After a title drought that stretched beyond two years, the win was a breath of fresh air for Indian badminton fans.

“Our youth have achieved many remarkable feats in sports lately. PV Sindhu has become the first Indian to win the Japan Open title in badminton. The entire nation is proud of her achievement,” the Prime Minister said, his voice tinged with genuine admiration.

But the celebration didn’t stop at the badminton court. Modi also tipped his hat to the Indian women’s cricket team, which had just delivered a landmark victory at the hallowed Lord’s ground in London. In a one‑off Test against England, the Indian side dominated, winning by a staggering 270 runs – the first Test win for any women’s side at the historic venue after a 142‑year wait.

“The Indian Women’s Cricket Team has also won its first Test match at Lord’s Stadium in London. This is a historic victory,” Modi added, underscoring the significance of the moment for Indian sport.

Both achievements, though from different arenas, share a common thread: they signal India’s rising stature on the global sporting map. As the Prime Minister wrapped up his address, the lingering sentiment was clear – these wins are not just medals and trophies; they are chapters in a larger story of a nation that’s increasingly confident in its athletic prowess.