Bhubaneswar: After bidding farewell to international hockey, the renowned player from Odisha, Deep Grace Ekka, is embarking on a new journey as she prepares to exchange vows with Indian Army personnel Anoop Lakra on February 6. The engagement ceremony took place on January 26, bringing together two accomplished individuals with roots in Sundargarh district.
Hailing from Lulkidhi village, Ekka has left an indelible mark on Indian women’s hockey, participating in 268 matches between 2011 and 2023. Her illustrious career includes representing the national team and earning the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2022. Following her recent retirement on January 27, Ekka is currently associated with the East Coast Railway (ECoR).
Anoop Lakra, a native of Deogaon village in the Subdega block of Sundargarh, serves in the Indian Army and has also showcased his hockey skills in various national-level matches. The union of Ekka and Lakra is not only a celebration of love but also a merging of their shared passion for the sport.
Deep Grace Ekka’s journey began at the age of 13 when she started playing state-level hockey matches. Her talent propelled her to the National Games in Ranchi in 2011, and she secured a spot on the Junior Asia Cup team the same year.
