25/12/2025
1st Muslim footballer in Manipur
Fatima Begum. is a pioneering Muslim woman footballer from Manipur, recognized as the first from Northeast India to play at the international level, notably representing India in the 1970s and captaining the Manipur state team, overcoming significant odds to play the sport she loved, and later becoming a sports official and coach, inspiring many Muslim girls into football. [1, 2, 3]
Key Highlights:
Early Start: She began playing football as a child in Kshetrigao, Manipur, using makeshift balls, showcasing her innate passion.
Pioneer Status: Considered the first Muslim woman
from Northeast India to play for the Indian national team, starting around 1974-75.
Manipur Captain: She captained the Manipur state team for three years, leading them at the national level.
Overcoming Challenges: In an era with little government support for women's sports, generous individuals helped her with boots, diet, and opportunities.
International Recognition: She played in national tournaments, earning accolades like the Kamla Nehru Trophy and scoring her first international goal against the USA.
Post-Playing Career: After her playing days, she joined
the Sports Department, served as a coach, and actively mentored young Muslim women and girls in football, contributing to the sport's growth in Manipur.
Recognition: She received the IQRA Award in 1995 and a Certificate of Honor from the Manipur Football Association in 2015.