Early Life and Introduction to Sports

Lovlina grew up in a modest family, supported by her parents, Tiken Borgohain, a small-scale businessman, and Mamoni Borgohain. Her family faced financial struggles, yet her father encouraged Lovlina and her two elder sisters to explore sports. Initially, Lovlina practiced Muay Thai, influenced by her twin elder sisters who competed in kickboxing. This martial art laid the foundation for her strength, discipline, and reflexes—skills that eventually shaped her boxing career.

Lovlina discovered her passion for boxing when the Sports Authority of India (SAI) conducted trials at Barpathar Girls High School in 2012. Her natural talent caught the attention of Coach Padum Chandra Bodo, who selected her for training at the SAI Centre in Guwahati. Under his guidance, she learned the fundamentals of boxing before being professionally trained by Coach Sandhya Gurung, who played a crucial role in refining her skills for international competitions.

Rise to National and International Fame

Lovlina's breakthrough came in 2017 when she won a bronze medal at the Asian Boxing Championships in Vietnam. In the same year, she secured another bronze at the President's Cup in Astana, establishing her as a promising name in Indian boxing.

In 2018, Lovlina dominated at the India Open International Boxing Tournament, winning gold in New Delhi and silver at the second edition in Guwahati. The same year, she earned a bronze medal at the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships, marking her first major global podium finish. Her performance continued to shine as she won another bronze at the 2019 World Boxing Championships in Russia.

Historic Olympic Journey

Lovlina created history by qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first woman athlete from Assam to do so. Her Olympic journey was inspirational-she defeated strong contenders like Nadine Apetz (Germany) and Chen Nien-Chin (Chinese Taipei) to enter the semifinals, ensuring a medal for India.

She eventually won the bronze medal in the 69 kg welterweight category, becoming only the third Indian boxer ever to win an Olympic medal. Her Olympic success earned her national admiration, multiple awards, and recognition from the Government of India and Assam.

Achievements After the Olympics

Lovlina continued her winning streak, capturing the gold medal at the 2023 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in the 75 kg category, defeating Australia’s Caitlin Parker in the final. She also represented India at the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning her first-round match but exiting in the quarterfinals.

Her career is adorned with prestigious awards, including:

• Arjuna Award (2020)

• Khel Ratna Award (2021) – India's highest sporting honour

• Asom Sourav Award (2021)

• Bhogeswar Baruah National Sports Award (2025)

In recognition of her achievements, the Government of Assam appointed her as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in 2022.

Lovlina's Impact and Legacy

Lovlina stands as an icon for aspiring athletes, especially young girls from the Northeast. She is admired not just for her achievements but also for her humility, focus, and strong cultural connection to her homeland. Her journey continues to inspire thousands across India.

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