The pride of India, MC Mary Kom hardly needs any introduction as she has proved herself multiple times with her incredible achievements in the boxing arena. The six-time World Champion has a long list of awards and accolades to her credit. However, some records, like being the first Indian to win a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games, being the only Indian woman to qualify for the 2012 Summer Olympics, and winning a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, are the cherished ones.
Nicknamed ‘Magnificent Mary’, the Government of Manipur conferred Mary with the title ‘Meethoi Leima’, (which means great or exceptional lady) after her sixth world title. In 2014, Mary Kom’s biographical drama was released in theatres, and it was critically acclaimed actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas who portrayed her role in the film. The movie was a huge success, and people got to see a glimpse of Mary’s professional and personal life.
Mary Kom has made an immense contribution to the world of boxing, but the man who stood with her throughout all the highs and lows is her husband, Karung Onkholer. He was not just her biggest cheerleader but sacrificed his own career for Mary. Today, let us read on to know their love story, which began with a ‘chance meeting’.
Mary Kom met Onler for the first time when she lost her belongings
It was back in 2000 when Mary took a train from Manipur to Bangalore for the national boxing camp. She had lost her wallet during her previous train journey and was quite worried. She strapped her other suitcase, which carried her other precious belongings, including her passport. However, when she woke up on the train, her suitcase was lost too. She had her first international tournament in a month, and she was there without a passport.
During that time, Onler was a student at Delhi University and also the president of the North East students’ body in Delhi. He helped Mary, and they became friends. Soon, they started dating, and he proposed to Mary for marriage.
Mary Kom’s husband, Onler had put his football career on hold for her
After four years of dating, Mary and Onler got married in 2005. The much-in-love couple was blessed with three kids, twin sons in 2007 and a baby boy in 2013. Not only this, but in 2018, Mary and Onler adopted a baby girl named Merilyn, as Mary always wanted a daughter.
Onler has been Mary’s constant support system. From being her friend, guide, and mentor to her manager, Onler has always been her strength. Onler, who was a footballer himself, put his career on hold to let Mary fly. While he took care of the house and their kids, she became the world champion. Once, Mary spoke about Onler’s role in her life and said:
“After my marriage, my husband has been a pillar of my strength. The support he gives me is immense. He takes care of everything that I can ask for; he is the ideal husband and father.”
Mary Kom and Onler’s alleged separation
After two decades of being with each other, there have been reports of trouble in Mary and Onler’s paradise. Multiple sources have confirmed that the couple has separated, and the divorce proceedings are yet to be initiated. According to a report by the Hindustan Times, the couple had been living apart since K Onler’s successful bid in the 2022 Manipur assembly elections. A source revealed that Mary moved to Faridabad with their children while Onler has been living with his family in Delhi.
Mary Kom reacted to her divorce speculations
When Hindustan Times reached out to Mary, she commented on the same and shared that she is not entitled to reply to the publication. Speaking about the same, Mary said:
“I choose not to comment on your message as per my right to privacy and dignity nor I am entitled to reply as asked by you.”
Are you also disheartened by the speculations about Mary Kom and Onler’s separation? Let us know.
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