Mumbai: Smriti Mandhana joined Pee Safe for the ‘Play in Comfort’ initiative organised at Mainadevi Bajaj International School, Mumbai, to encourage holistic wellness, confidence, and menstrual hygiene awareness among young female athletes and school students. The initiative brought together women cricketers and students, where Smriti interacted with the participants and inspired them to pursue sports with confidence and comfort.
The whole idea was for girls to join sports without that constant hesitation. The conversation also brought up menstrual wellness, real self-care, and how schools or sporting spaces should feel safe and supportive, not awkward. Through the event, students, educators, and sports lovers came together to start open conversations and to reduce the stigma people still attached to periods in sports.
As part of the event, Smriti Mandhana felicitated young students and athletes, and interacted with students through an engaging cricket session on the field. Her interaction was meant to inspire young girls to pursue sports with confidence, consistency, and the right support system overall.
Addressing the young female students, Vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana, Indian Women’s National Cricket Team, said, “I play for India, and that’s exactly the mindset that keeps me going. When you put on the jersey, be it the Indian jersey or whichever team you play for, you have to do justice to the role that has been given to you. There are so many people who support us, so it is a bigger responsibility than you think. So, sometimes when you have that, your own period pain doesn’t come in between.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Rithish Kumar, Co-Founder, Pee Safe, said, “Young girls often face challenges while balancing sports and personal well-being, especially during their periods. Through “Play in Comfort,” we aim to raise awareness, foster openness, and make comfort and hygiene part and parcel of every young athlete’s journey and to help girls stay active, feel sure, and keep their focus on their dreams.”
He also addressed a few concerns that young athletes face during their periods.
