Hockey Star Deep Grace Ekka to Exchange Vows with Anoop Lakra on Feb 6

Bhubaneswar: Following her announcement of retirement from international hockey, Odisha’s legendary hockey player, Deep Grace Ekka, is embarking on a new chapter in life as she prepares to tie the knot with Indian Army personnel, Anoop Lakra, on February 6.

The engagement ceremony took place on January 26, uniting Ekka, a native of Lulkidhi village in Sundargarh district, with Lakra, who hails from Deogaon village in the Subdega block of Sundargarh.

Presently employed with the East Coast Railway (ECoR), Ekka’s soon-to-be spouse, Anoop Lakra, serves in the Indian Army and has also represented Odisha in various national-level hockey matches.

A celebrated athlete, Ekka made a significant impact as a stalwart in the Indian women’s hockey team, participating in 268 matches from 2011 to 2023. Her retirement from international games was officially announced on January 27.

Born in Sundargarh district, Ekka showcased her talent early, joining state-level hockey matches at the age of 13. Her journey included participation in the National Games at Ranchi in 2011 and selection for the Junior Asia Cup team in the same year. The 30-year-old player received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2022, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the sport.

As Deep Grace Ekka and Anoop Lakra prepare to embark on their marital journey, the hockey community and fans eagerly await the union of two accomplished individuals who have left an indelible mark on the sports landscape.