T.N. govt. gives ₹1 cr. to Chennai-based carrom champion after historic world cup win

When carrom champion Keerthana of Washermanpet woke up this morning, she never imagined that she would be holding a ₹1-crore cheque. Still riding the high of her victory at the 7^th Carrom World Cup in the Maldives, which concluded on December 6, where she won gold in singles, doubles, and team events, she received the cheque from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday.

“I knew I’d win something, but never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d win gold in all three categories,” Ms. Keerthana said. The 21-year-old has overcome significant financial struggles, particularly after the death of her father. But with the support of her mentor, M. Nithyarajan, she continued to pursue her passion for carrom.

In addition to competing, she also coaches children of daily-wage workers at the academy run by Mr. Nithyarajan. Her ultimate dream is to help others rise through the sport, just as she has. With the prize money, she now hopes to build a home for her family.

Ms. Keerthana’s victory in the 52^nd Senior National Carrom Championship in New Delhi in March 2025, where she won both the women’s singles and team events, was a historic achievement — marking Tamil Nadu’s first singles win in 15 years. Her World Cup victory has only fuelled her determination further. “The same person can’t keep winning all the time. I want my students to win too. They all come from modest backgrounds like me and winning would change their lives,” she said.

Mr. Nithyarajan said the recognition from the State government was a huge encouragement not just for Ms. Keerthana but also for other young players as well. He credited carrom veterans Maria Irudayam and R. Amuthavanan, along with the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, for their support in her journey to victory.