Zeb Akhtar

Poverty and deprivation often crush children’s dreams before they even begin to take shape. In the rural belts of Jharkhand, this is a familiar picture. Yet, from these same areas, stories of hope are emerging.

One such story is that of Anwarul Haq, a resident of Chadri village in Kanke block, who has started a unique initiative. By day, he teaches football, and by night, he tutors children. In just three years, his efforts have transformed the lives of many children for whom both education and sports were once distant luxuries.

Anwarul, a sports teacher at a residential girls’ school in Ranchi, decided to go beyond his job to make a difference. In 2021, disturbed by the condition of children in his village and nearby areas—most from families surviving on daily wages, many skipping school or falling into bad company—he realised the only way forward was to connect them with education and sports. But there was no ground, and no resources.

Undeterred, Anwarul levelled village farmlands and turned them into makeshift football fields. During crop season, he would look for alternative spots. Despite the hardships, his persistence and the children’s enthusiasm slowly turned the impossible into reality.

Convincing parents to send their children was no easy task. Many guardians from poor families could not see how football could help their children. Some even spread rumours that Anwarul was doing it for personal gain. Yet, he did not give up. He visited homes, assuring parents that their children would play football during the day and study at night. Gradually, trust was built, and children began to join him.

In what has grown into a movement started with just four girls. His “Star Warriors Club” has trained around 150 children from Kanke and Ormanjhi. Today, 60–65 children are actively part of it, and 14 girls have represented at national-level tournaments. The biggest success story is that of Divyani Linda, who has made it to India’s Under-17 women’s football team and is now playing internationally.

Anwarul Haq with children of his Academy

In what has grown into a movement started with just four girls. His “Star Warriors Club” has trained around 150 children from Kanke and Ormanjhi. Today, 60–65 children are actively part of it, and 14 girls have represented at national-level tournaments. The biggest success story is that of Divyani Linda, who has made it to India’s Under-17 women’s football team and is now playing internationally.

The Story of Divyani Linda

Divyani’s journey reflects the true impact of Anwarul’s work. Coming from a family mired in extreme poverty, he was raised by his mother, who worked as a labourer after her father’s death. Her younger brother was bedridden with a broken leg, but Devyani found strength in football. Under Anwarul’s guidance, she made it to the national squad and now represents India. “My dream,” says Divyani, “is to use the money I earn from football to treat my brother.”

Coach Anwarul Haq with Divyani as a budding sportsperson (Left) and now (Right) when she is a national player

Anwarul says, “When I see children like Divyani shine, it feels like our efforts are paying off.. The sparkle of hope in their eyes is our true achievement,” he says.

Getting girls to the field was a major hurdle. When they first appeared in shorts, villagers objected. Parents, too, were hesitant. But Anwarul persisted and convinced them that it’s for a purpose. Today, girls stand shoulder-to-shoulder with boys in the club.

His initiative has drawn local recognition. Social worker Jagdish Singh Jaggurter has been his permanent supporter, while local police and officials often visit the grounds to encourage the children. Even international hockey player Nikki Pradhan has boosted their morale. Last August, foreign guests from Singapore and Malaysia visited the Star Warriors Club to study its impact on society. They were moved by the children’s struggles and pledged support.

Anwarul Haq with a student of his Academy and his parents

Despite the progress, the lack of a permanent football ground is a major hurdle in his mission. “When children return after winning state or national matches, they are celebrated, and promises are made. But soon after, everything is forgotten,” says Anwarul.

Anwarul’s vision goes beyond football. The same children who sweat it out on the field by day study with him at night. He believes only the combination of education and sports can shape a good future.

Posing with the winners

Anwarul’s work is gradually transforming society. Children are moving away from drugs and bad influences, finding purpose in sports and education. Families, too, are beginning to see the change.

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In villages where deprivation forces many to abandon their dreams, Chadri’s Star Warriors Club is showing what’s possible. Anwarul Haq has proved that even small individual efforts can spark big changes. For him, football is not just a game—it is a tool for social transformation. His courage and commitment truly deserve much admiration.