5 Indian sportspersons who switched to politics

Azharuddin captained the National side in the 1999 World Cup 

#2 Nafisa Ali (Swimming)

Nafisa Ali transitioned across different careers

The two-time national swimming champion has changed her career several times. From a sportsperson to an actor to politician, the 57-year old has had an eventful life so far.

From 1972-1974, she dominated Indian swimming, winning back to back national championships. She was also a jockey at the Calcutta Gymkhana club.

Nafisa took her first few steps into politics in 2004, she joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and contested for the South Kolkata seat in West Bengal. However, after losing out in her consitutency, she had to wait five more years for her next chance.

In 2009, she contested the elections for the Samajwadi Party from Lucknow. This time her electoral candidacy resulted in victory. However, after a brief stint with SP, she rejoined the Congress the same year.

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Edited by Staff Editor