From Water Boy to PKL Star in Making: U Mumba's Rohit Raghav Narrates His Inspiring Journey

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Rohit Mansingh Raghav's journey in kabaddi is a testament to perseverance and passion. Hailing from a small village in southern Haryana, where sporting opportunities were scarce, he first fell in love with the game after watching legends like Deepak Hooda and Pardeep Narwal compete at a local tournament.

But unlike many others, Rohit's entry into the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) wasn't through traditional routes - he started as a water boy, soaking in every moment, studying the game from the sidelines, and dreaming of his own moment on the mat.

Fast forward to PKL Season 10, and that moment arrived when U Mumba handed him an opportunity as an injury replacement. Rohit seized it with both hands, proving his worth as an all-rounder and earning his place in the squad for Season 11, where he played 21 matches. His story is one of unwavering belief - of embracing struggles, making the most of opportunities, and proving that no role is too small when chasing a dream.

In an interaction with myKhel, Rohit - who idolises his U Mumba skipper and one of the best defenders in the game Sunil Kumar - opens up about his early struggles, his mindset during tough times, and his aspirations for the future. Here are the excerpts:

Q: Can you share a bit about your childhood in Haryana? What inspired you to get involved in kabaddi, especially when things were tough?

Rohit: I hail from southern Haryana where there's very little sporting culture, be it any sport. In our village, there is an annual fair on Makar Sankranti (January 14th), which has been hosted for 70 years. There are tournaments there and upon seeing the sport being played and players like Deepak Hooda and Pardeep Narwal participate, I started playing kabaddi.

Q: Looking back at your time as a water boy, what were some of the hardest moments for you? How did you keep your spirits up during that time?

Rohit: In 2019, I was in SAI. They used to take people from SAI for the role, those who knew about the sport. People were ashamed of that role, they used to step away from it. I was very eager and was one of the first to apply for it. I saw it as an opportunity. I wanted to watch the players closely and learn.

We used to get paid 500 rupees per day. I loved the environment there. Us mat boys used to be the closest to the action, even closer than the coach. We used to see players like Pawan Sehrawat play and hope that even we are respected as much one day for our performances.

Q: I can only imagine how you felt when U Mumba called you as an injury replacement. Can you take us through that moment? What was going through your mind?

Rohit: I got a call from Sunil (Kumar) bhai. He's the captain of U Mumba and he told me about how there was an injury to one of the players. He recommended my name as replacement and promised me a chance to showcase my skills. It was a surreal feeling.

Q: When you got the chance to play for U Mumba, how did you prepare for your debut? What was your mindset like before stepping onto the mat?

Rohit: I had decided in my mind that despite the highs and lows that I have encountered, I want to show to the world that I am not an unsold player. I came to play in all matches with the same mindset.

Q: As a super sub, what do you think you bring to the team? How do you feel your contributions have made a difference in the games?

Rohit: I have always given more than my best to the team every time I have played.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future in kabaddi? Are there specific goals you're aiming for?

Rohit: I want to keep improving and getting better. I want to give an even better performance in the next season. I want to give my 100% and single-handedly deliver victories for my team.

Q: For young athletes who might be facing similar struggles, what would you say to encourage them? What's the most important lesson you've learned?

Rohit: Don't lose hope. Keep faith and the almighty will fulfil your wishes. Your efforts will never go waste. Keep working hard and let your success talk.

Q: You've come such a long way. How do you hope to inspire others in your community with your story? Do you have any plans to give back in the future?

Rohit: I hope to inspire others and create a sporting culture in my region. I hope there is a conducive environment for sports in my village as well like there is in some others. I haven't thought too much about the future.