PULWAMA: From the small village of Putrigam in Pulwama, a new sports icon has risen. Sunaina Gulzar, a name now synonymous with determination and success, has emerged as one of Jammu & Kashmir’s strongest female sports figures and the first female kabaddi player from District Pulwama.
Sunaina’s journey is a powerful testament to grit and dedication, charting a path from a young girl in Class 6 to a national medal winner.
A Champion Forged in Adversity
Sunaina discovered her passion for the indigenous sport of kabaddi at a remarkably young age. Despite facing significant hurdles, including limited facilities and a scarcity of female players, her resolve never wavered.
“She used every obstacle as fuel to move forward,” a source close to the athlete noted.
Through years of rigorous training and discipline, Sunaina achieved remarkable success on the national stage:
- 7 National Tournament appearances representing Jammu & Kashmir.
- Proud winner of 1 National Gold Medal, cementing her status among the finest young talents in the region.
JKKL Breakthrough: A Career Transformed
A major milestone arrived when Sunaina was signed by the Kathua Darbar team in the Jammu & Kashmir Kabaddi League (JKKL)—the region’s biggest kabaddi league. This moment of being sold to the team marked a significant turning point, officially transforming her into one of the few girls to represent the JKKL.
Her success has done more than just bring honor to her family; it has inspired a generation of young girls in Pulwama to chase their own ambitious dreams.
The Pillars of Support
Behind every successful athlete is a dedicated support system. Sunaina’s success is a shared victory, powered by the unwavering encouragement of her:
- Father and Family: Providing powerful, foundational support.
- Dedicated Coaches: Guiding her technique and discipline.
A special mention goes to Khalida Ma’am, a teacher whose tireless encouragement and belief in Sunaina’s abilities provided a critical source of inspiration, especially in moments of self-doubt.
Sunaina Gulzar’s story is a compelling narrative of overcoming the odds, proving that passion, combined with perseverance, can turn local talent into a national phenomenon.
