World Cup Star Kranti Gaud Brings Pride to Ghuwara Village
When you walk into Ghuwara village in Madhya Pradesh and ask for Kranti Gaud, villagers smile and point the way. They say with pride, "She is the one who won the World Cup." They guide visitors directly to the home of the all-rounder who has become the village's greatest source of honor.
From Local Recognition to National Fame
Kranti had already started making a name for herself before the World Cup victory. However, that historic win against South Africa changed everything. It turned her into a household name across India. Her story now echoes through every corner of Ghuwara. The triumph permanently etched her name into the country's World Cup history.
Celebrations brought new responsibilities for the young cricketer. Among her many post-victory goals, one stood out as deeply personal. She wanted to help her father get his job back.
A Father's Job Restored After 13 Years
Kranti's father, Munna Singh, served as a police constable. He faced suspension from service years ago for certain reasons. Thirteen long years passed without resolution. Then Kranti's World Cup success opened a door they had been waiting for.
During a felicitation ceremony, Kranti met Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. She raised her father's case and requested intervention. The Chief Minister assured the World Cup champion that authorities would address the matter.
"The official letter has not arrived yet," Kranti explained in an exclusive interview. "His job letter will come soon. It might take a little time, but it will definitely come very soon. I feel really thankful to God for everything. I am happy that he will wear his police uniform again."
Parental Support and Village Background
Kranti credits her parents for her success. "My parents supported me immensely throughout my cricketing journey," she said. "I always played with boys, often older than me. That is how I learned the game. People used to question it, but my parents always backed me."
She comes from a small village, but her parents maintained a progressive mindset. "The support and mindset my parents had were huge for me," Kranti emphasized. "Whatever I am today is only because of them."
Changing Perceptions Through Achievement
The World Cup victory has shifted attitudes in her community. "After winning the World Cup, a lot has changed in my life," Kranti observed. "People who earlier believed that girls cannot do certain things have now started believing that girls can do anything. There is a lot of change happening around."
Cricket Beginnings and Learning from Boys
Kranti always wanted to become a cricketer. A ground stood in front of her house where boys regularly played. "Whenever the ball came to our side, I would pick it up and return it," she recalled. "Slowly I started getting interested. I would go and try batting with them, but initially I did not know much."
The boys initially limited her participation. "They made me do only fielding and did not allow me to bat or bowl," she said. "Over time, by staying with them and learning, I picked up bowling. I kept watching them and started copying what they did to learn how to bowl."
Admiration for Hardik Pandya
Kranti has long admired India's all-rounder Hardik Pandya. After the World Cup triumph, one of her photos went viral. She recreated Pandya's iconic victory pose with the trophy in hand.
Now she dreams of meeting Pandya in person. "Hardik Pandya has always been my favorite," Kranti shared. "I used to watch his videos and matches. When he commented on my photo, I could not believe it for two hours. I was very happy. I have not spoken to him yet or met him, but I really wish to meet him soon."
WPL 2026 and UP Warriorz
At the WPL 2026 auction, UP Warriorz bought Kranti for the second consecutive season. The team exercised its Right-to-Match card and secured her for Rs 50 lakh.
"I was watching the auction and really wanted to play for UP Warriorz," Kranti said. "I hoped the Warriorz would pick me again, and they did. I was very happy. I want to give my best for the team and become part of a title-winning side this time around."
Kranti Gaud's journey from a small Madhya Pradesh village to World Cup glory continues to inspire. Her success has not only brought personal fulfillment but has also created positive change for her family and community.
