By Anukriti Srivastava
DEHRADUN, 7 Feb: Gulnaz Fatima, a 20-year-old athlete from Ladakh, is living her dream at the 38th National Games. Running has been her passion since she was a child, and competing at this level for the first time is an unforgettable experience for her. With the support of a senior athlete who has previously participated in the National Games and the constant encouragement of her coach, she stepped onto the track filled with confidence and determination.
While growing up in Ladakh, Gulnaz did not face personal restrictions, but she observed many girls struggling to pursue sports. She recognized the challenges they faced in breaking free from societal norms, yet she also witnessed a positive change. Her family played a vital role in this transformation, supporting her wholeheartedly and demonstrating that attitudes in Ladakh are shifting. She feels privileged to represent her state at a time when opportunities for girls in sports are expanding.
Arriving at the Games brimming with enthusiasm, Gulnaz carried the hopes of her family and state, determined to make them proud. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who believed in her and encouraged young people to embrace athletics as a new way of life. For her, sports are not merely about competition; they represent growth, empowerment, and breaking down barriers. She stressed that while people may have their opinions, it’s essential to stay focused on one’s goals and aspirations.
Gulnaz also mentioned the warm welcome she and other athletes from Ladakh received in Uttarakhand. She appreciated the hospitality and the well-organized facilities that ensured their comfort. Gulnaz Fatima is not just running a race—she is paving the way for future generations of girls in Ladakh to pursue their dreams, proving that dreams are worth chasing and celebrating the progress being made for girls in sports across the country.
