My elder sister Saraswati is my inspiration.

No one can live without love.

I can't spend my life worrying about others.

When I began running at the age of 10, I didn't have the diet athletes need. It was just rice and vegetables. Every day.

There is no greater emotion than love and it should not be denied.

As a child, I used to laugh when my mother spanked me. No matter what she did, she could never get me to cry.

I would worry that one morning I would wake up and be told that I can't compete any more.

In India, tradition is paramount. Husband-wife relationship is okay. They do not allow girls to go out.

As an athlete, there are limits to my ability to reach out, a platform that politics can offer.

I want to be able to serve people. For that it's important that I'm with them, among them and working for them.

I've gone through a lot in my life, I have seen a lot of struggles and difficulties. I have braved it all and won medals for my country with my determination.

While I don't know who will eventually be selected, I think Kangana Ranaut can portray me perfectly on screen, I like her as an actress.

I think Priyanka Chopra did a very good job in 'Mary Kom.'

Finalising an actress is the job of the producer and director. It usually happens only after they are ready with a story.

I would urge youngsters to pick up a sport while pursuing your studies as it will keep you fit and you could make your country proud in the field of sports.

If any athlete is doing well, then it's the responsibility of the government to support the athlete.

Any recognition by the government for your performance and achievements always boosts the confidence of an athlete.

An award or an honour from the government is always welcomed any time.

One day, they told me that due to hyperandrogenism, I cannot compete. I appealed and fought it and came back to win for the country. Coming out was easier than that.

When I came out, initially, I faced some mocking. For the first 10-15 days, sometimes when I was out in public, people would shout things like 'lesbian.'

When I won medals, I think I was doing something for my employers also. I am making them proud.

I don't have the resources to maintain luxury cars, though I love them.

It is not written anywhere that one cannot join politics while playing. There were instances of several successful sportsperson who have excelled in politics, sports and business at the same time.

The Khelo India University Games is a great way to unearth talent in this country.

People study and play sports side by side. So, most of the talent exists in schools and universities.

The Odisha government is supporting the sports circuit very well. Athletes are getting jobs in the government sector and they are providing facilities for all athletes to perform as well.

Athletes from rural areas are getting a chance to showcase their talent through the Khelo India Games.

In 100m, the timings fluctuate.

Even through sports, I have been serving the country. But later, I want to join politics.

All bodies can't be same, my body will react differently tours.

Look, there's no proof that athletes like us who may have higher testosterone levels are benefiting from this natural human body trait.

Follow your heart, and don't be subservient to anyone. Shut out the world, and only listen to your heart to fulfill your dreams.

I don't really follow any sportspersons, to be honest. However, I'm a fan of Usain Bolt and follow him on social media.

In my village, people believed that women should stay in their homes. However, I followed my heart and showed them that I'll not succumb to their regressive ideals.

Sports is my life, and I live for it.

I know people started suspecting whether I was a woman or a man. All the honour I earned - I lost.

I am a normal girl.

My whole life has been about fighting for what I want, what I believe in.

Success comes but with time. People want to achieve things very quickly; they are not patient.

When I was a kid, I dreamt of being a runner. My mother and father always told me to go after what I wanted. I went after running.

My God showed me that I had the ability to make my family and my country proud. That's why I concentrated on sports and worked hard.

I come from a poor background, I've seen struggle. Money will come and go, but I will continue to be grounded.

I am passionate to win and achieve something big for the country.

Participation in international events has given me a lot of experience.

When I participated in Rio Olympics in 2016, I failed to grab a medal. But it was a learning experience.

The World University Games Gold medal was a great confidence booster for me. It highlighted my talents, my performance and dedication.

Gold medal always feels great. In fact, any appreciation or acknowledgement is a great morale booster.

The more medals I win, the more my ambitions and confidence levels increase.

My sister was an athlete. Every time she came home during her break, I would accompany her. Initially, I took part in school sports, but gradually, my sister encouraged me to take it up professionally.

My parents are weavers. They worked very hard to give us our daily food.