UNDEFEATED KICK BOXER FROM NORTH KASHMIR
Rabia Riyaz, third year BA student of HKM Degree College, Putushai, Bandipora was born in the family of Riyaz Ahmad Haji employed with Forest Department, Bandipora. Since her childhood, Rabia wanted to become a sports person and was inclined towards Kick-Boxing, Wushu and Taekwondo. She being the eldest daughter with two younger sisters, as a role model, has been at the forefront in all activities both to her sisters and many other girls of North Kashmir.
Inspired by her father and achievements of Mr Faisal Ali, recipient of President’s Award (year 2020) for his contribution in the fields of Sports, Rabia commenced her training in Kick-Boxing, Wushu and Taekwondo at Ali Sports Academy, Bandipora in the year 2015. Rabia’s dedication, devotion and perseverance made her represent India and bag two gold medals at National Level in Junior Category in Kick Boxing during National Kick Boxing Championship held at Patna in the year 2017 and 2018.
Guided and nurtured by Ali Sports Academy and assisted by Indian Army by employing her as instructor for two consecutive years at Annual Martial Arts Training Camp at Bandipora, Rabia not only became financially independent but also moved ahead with her dream of contributing towards women empowerment. Her innate instructional abilities and exemplary conduct, besides, motivating other girls to join Kick-Boxing, Wushu and Taekwondo arena, also, increased the footfall of girls from North Kashmir in other sports activities.
Rabia’s achievement, despite, parochial societal mindset has drawn number of girls towards Kick-Boxing, Wushu and Taekwondo which in itself is a rare feat and is a sheer manifestation of her hard work and motivation. Her achievements have not only made her an inspiration for the girls of Bandipora, but also has been a life changing event for other such girls of North, Kashmir. Rabia, two times National Gold Medalist in Kick Boxing is presently pursuing her dream of representing India in Olympics by becoming India’s best player in Kick-Boxing and continues with her drive for women empowerment.
