Hima Das

Our village is very small, so I wasn't surprised when I heard some negative comments from my neighbours on my interest in sports. But nothing mattered, as I always knew what I was doing and why I was doing it.

My role model was Sachin Tendulkar as a kid. I feel very proud that I have been able to follow his footsteps and become a UNICEF ambassador like him.

My attitude is different. And no one understands me the way my friends do.

Let's just say my mind is different.

I'm not comparing it with cricketers who get huge money. But getting some financial benefits do motivate players, especially athletes. I appreciate this move by the state government. A state like Haryana has been producing more and more players because of such motivations.

We usually have a fixed routine for our trainings. It is important that we are disciplined throughout because, being athletes, those little things impact our performances on the field.

The ultimate dream of an athlete is to compete in the Olympics. For us athletes, that is the zenith. There is nothing beyond that.

I am not a star.

I don't fear anything.

Besides my father, who used to be a footballer at the local level, it is Messi for whom I started to play football.

My father was a footballer, and he has inspired me.

I was naughty but never demanding. I never asked my parents for shoes or tracksuits. I was happy with what I had.