Ritu ‘at home’ in her Bhutan adventure so far
Fresh off a glittering 2024, Bangladesh star Ritu Porna Chakma now finds herself at the heart of Bhutan's most exciting women's football season yet.
"Paro FC is a strong and professional team," Ritu told Kuensel, her eyes already set on the prize.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "When the club offered me the opportunity, I felt very happy and honoured. Also, women's football in Bhutan is developing rapidly, and I saw it as a golden chance to grow my career, sharpen my skills, and gain valuable exposure. My goal this season is simple -- give my best, keep the matches competitive, and help Paro FC lift the championship."
This year's Bhutan Women's National League is the biggest yet, featuring a record 36 foreign players from Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Nepal, India, and the USA.
Although the competition -- originally scheduled to begin last Saturday -- was briefly thrown off course by the last-minute withdrawal of The Royal Academy Women FC, Gelephu U-17 Academy stepped in, and now the ten-team tournament is slated to run next month.
For Ritu, Bhutan has already felt like a home away from home.
"I love the people the most," she said with a warm smile. "Bhutanese are humble, hospitable, respectful, caring, and loving. When I'm in Bhutan, it feels like home," said the midfielder, who was adjudged Most Valuable Player at the SAFF Women's Championship last year when Bangladesh defended the title in Nepal.
Always keeping one eye on the bigger picture, Ritu believes the future of women's football in South Asia is brighter than ever.
"Many countries are investing heavily now, and we're seeing an exciting wave of young talent across the region. With steady support, better infrastructure, and more international exposure, South Asia can truly become a global hub for women's football," she said.
Ritu's journey isn't a lone adventure either. Flying the flag alongside her at Paro are compatriots Sabina Khatun, Monika Chakma, and Matsushima Sumaiya.
Meanwhile, fellow Bangladesh international Maria Manda has found her feet quickly at Thimphu City FC, praising the "team chemistry", while Transport United FC's Krishna Rani Sarkar, Rupna Chakma, and Masura Parvin are rolling up their sleeves -- with Masura particularly determined to not only make her mark but also help local players rise through the ranks.
Alongside the aforementioned Bangladesh players -- who were part of a lingering dispute with national coach Peter Butler -- Sanjida Akter and Shamsunnahar Junior are also taking part in the Bhutan league.
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