Jyoti Chhatri, born on March 8, 2003, is an emerging Indian field hockey midfielder who has made significant strides in her career, representing India at junior and senior levels. Hailing from Panposh, Odisha, she is a product of the Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre and the Sports Hostel Panposh.
Early Life and Background
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Born to Bhim Singh Chhatri and Suman Singh Chhatri in a family with two elder brothers, Jyoti was inspired to take up hockey by her elder brother Suraj Singh Chhatri, a national-level goalkeeper.
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Her family moved from Ranchi to Odisha, facing financial challenges, but Jyoti’s talent earned her a place at the Panposh Sports Hostel in 2014, where she received free training, accommodation, and education support.
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She completed her matriculation at Birsa Munda Vidhyapitha and Class 12 at Hrushikesh Ray Mahavidyalaya in Rourkela.
Career Highlights
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Junior Career:
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Represented India in the 2023 Junior Asia Cup, helping the team secure the title.
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Made her debut in 2022 at the U-23 five-nation tournament in Dublin, Ireland, where India won silver.
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Part of the Indian junior team that toured South Africa and participated in multiple international junior tournaments.
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Senior Career:
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Promoted to the Indian senior women’s hockey team in July 2023.
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Participated in tours of Germany and Spain with the senior team, gaining valuable international exposure.
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Recognized for her tenacity, work ethic, and rapid development as a midfielder.
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Playing Profile
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Position: Midfielder
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Strengths:
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Strong ball control and distribution
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Tactical awareness and ability to read the game
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Tenacity and resilience on the field
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Style:
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Energetic and hardworking midfielder known for linking defense and attack effectively
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Combines technical skills with a determined mindset to support team dynamics
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Notable Facts
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Jyoti is the first non-tribal woman hockey player from Sundargarh district to represent India internationally, belonging to the Gorkha community.
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She credits her brother’s encouragement and the support of her coaches for her rise in hockey.
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Despite early family reservations about her playing hockey, Jyoti’s dedication convinced them to support her career.
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She aspires to fulfill her father’s dream by excelling in hockey and securing a permanent place in the senior national team.
FAQs About Jyoti Chhatri
What position does Jyoti Chhatri play?
Midfielder
Where is she from?
Panposh, Sundargarh district, Odisha, India
How old is Jyoti Chhatri?
22 (born March 8, 2003; as of July 2025)
What are her main achievements?
Junior Asia Cup winner (2023), U-23 five-nation silver medalist (2022), promotion to senior Indian team in 2023
What is her playing style?
Energetic, tactically aware midfielder with strong ball control and resilience
Conclusion
Jyoti Chhatri is a promising young midfielder in Indian women’s hockey, known for her rapid rise through the junior ranks to the senior national team. Her journey from Odisha’s Panposh Sports Hostel to international tournaments exemplifies her dedication, skill, and potential to become a mainstay in Indian hockey.
