Kashmir has produced many notable individuals who have excelled in various fields. One such individual is Saqib Majeed, a weightlifter who has become an inspiration to many in the region. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, Saqib has become a symbol of strength, determination, and perseverance. Saqib was born in 1995 in the town of Anantnag in South Kashmir. She grew up in a conservative family where women were not encouraged to pursue sports or physical activities. However, Saqib was determined to break the norm and pursue her passion for weightlifting. She started training at a local gym at the age of 16 and soon realized that she had a natural talent for the sport. However, pursuing a career in weightlifting was not easy for Saqib. She faced resistance from her family and community, who did not understand her passion for the sport. Moreover, the lack of proper infrastructure and training facilities in Kashmir made it difficult for her to hone her skills and compete at a higher level. Despite these challenges, Saqib remained undeterred. She continued to train hard and compete in local tournaments, and soon began to gain recognition for her talent. In 2015, she won her first gold medal at the J&K State Weightlifting Championship, and from there, her career took off. Saqib’s talent soon caught the attention of the national weightlifting community, and she was invited to train at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala. This was a turning point in her career, as she was able to train under the guidance of top coaches and access world-class facilities. She quickly rose through the ranks and started competing at the national level. In 2017, Saqib made history by becoming the first female weightlifter from Kashmir to win a medal at the national level. She won a bronze medal in the 69 kg category at the Senior National Weightlifting Championship held in Pune. This was a proud moment not just for Saqib, but for the entire Kashmiri community, who saw her as a symbol of hope and inspiration. Saqib’s success did not come easy. She had to overcome numerous obstacles along the way, including financial difficulties, lack of proper training facilities, and the constant threat of violence and instability in Kashmir. However, she remained focused and committed to her goal, and continued to train hard despite the challenges. Today, Saqib is a role model for young girls in Kashmir, who look up to her as a symbol of strength and resilience. She has inspired many to pursue their dreams and break free from the stereotypes that have held women back in the region. She is also an advocate for women’s empowerment and has spoken out about the need for greater opportunities and support for female athletes in Kashmir. In recognition of her achievements, Saqib has received numerous awards and accolades. In 2019, she was awarded the Sher-e-Kashmir Award by the Jammu and Kashmir government for her contribution to sports. She has also been named “Kashmir’s Iron Lady” by the media, and her story has been featured in documentaries and news articles around the world. Saqib’s success is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the talent and potential that exists in Kashmir. Despite the challenges and obstacles, there are many young people in the region who are striving to excel in various fields. Saqib’s story is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and determination, anything is possible. In conclusion, Saqib Majeed is a true hero and an inspiration to the people of Kashmir. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and the resilience of the human spirit.
