In a country where tradition meets innovation, Shrunali Ranade is charting a new path for Indian women abroad — one that embraces ambition, adaptability, and balance. Living in Japan, she has become a symbol of what it means to thrive in multiple worlds: excelling in her career, making her mark in cricket, and redefining success on her own terms.
A Journey of Adaptation and Growth
When Shrunali first moved to Japan, she was met with both awe and uncertainty. The cultural nuances, the language barrier, and the rhythm of Japanese work life were all new terrain. But instead of seeing challenges, she saw opportunities to learn.
“Japan taught me patience and precision,” she reflects. “Things here move differently — thoughtfully, deliberately. Once I understood that, I began to find my own flow within it.”
Her professional journey mirrors this mindset. Working in Japan’s corporate environment — often described as rigorous yet respectful — Shrunali learned how to adapt without losing her authenticity. She credits this blend of cultural understanding and resilience as the foundation of her success.
Finding Purpose Beyond the Desk
But Shrunali’s story doesn’t end in the boardroom. Off the clock, she transforms into a passionate cricketer — a rare and inspiring sight in Japan, where cricket is still growing. As part of Japan’s cricket community, she not only plays but also mentors others, helping to bring more visibility to the sport among women and expatriates.
“Cricket has always been my comfort zone,” she says with a smile. “It connects me to my roots and gives me a sense of belonging, even when I’m far from home.”
Her participation in the sport isn’t just about competition — it’s about community. Whether on the pitch or in the stands, Shrunali advocates for inclusion, encouraging women to explore their passions, no matter how unconventional they seem.
Redefining Success Through Balance
For many working professionals abroad, the struggle to maintain balance is real. The pressure to excel, fit in, and constantly perform can be overwhelming. But Shrunali’s philosophy offers a refreshing perspective: success isn’t always about pushing forward — sometimes it’s about knowing when to step back.
“Stepping back isn’t failure,” she says. “It’s another form of strength — the courage to pause, reflect, and realign your priorities.”
It’s this mindset that has helped her stay grounded. Between her demanding work schedule, cricket commitments, and personal life, she has learned that balance doesn’t mean doing everything at once — it means doing what matters most, with purpose.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
As an Indian woman thriving in Japan, Shrunali represents a growing wave of cross-cultural professionals redefining what global success looks like. She’s part of a generation that values not only achievement but also well-being, connection, and authenticity.
Her story resonates deeply with women who often feel torn between ambition and self-care. “We’re allowed to slow down,” she emphasizes. “Growth isn’t always linear — sometimes it’s circular, and that’s okay.”
The Spirit of Resilience
In both her career and on the cricket field, Shrunali’s journey stands as a testament to resilience — the ability to stay true to oneself while adapting to a new environment. She continues to inspire others by showing that passion and professionalism can coexist, and that strength often comes from knowing when to take a breath.
As she looks ahead, Shrunali hopes to keep bridging worlds — through her work, her sport, and her story. “I want people, especially women, to know that it’s possible to create a life that feels like your own — no matter where you are in the world.”
A trailblazer, a mentor, and a believer in balance — Shrunali Ranade’s journey in Japan is a reminder that strength doesn’t always roar. Sometimes, it simply stands tall in quiet confidence.
Source:https://www.japantimes.co.jp/community/2025/10/09/our-lives/shrunali-ranade-cricket-engineering/
