Aamina Zehra from Srinagar made a remarkable achievement by winning a silver medal in Pencak Silat at the International World Championship in Abu Dhabi. This victory not only brought pride to her hometown but also highlighted Kashmir’s growing presence in the world of martial arts.
A Tough Competition
The championship featured some of the best athletes from around the world. Throughout the event, Aamina faced tough competition, showcasing not only her physical strength but also her mental resilience. Pencak Silat, a traditional Indonesian martial art, combines self-defense techniques with artistic movements, and Aamina demonstrated exceptional skill in both areas.
Aamina’s Journey
Aamina’s journey into Pencak Silat began years ago when she was drawn to the sport’s unique strategy and discipline. She recalled, “The 5th World Junior Championship had recently taken place in Abu Dhabi where I participated and I got the silver medal there. Before that, I have played in nationals in Srinagar and many states. I am a student of Nasir sir. Basically, this game is very different from other martial arts… I found it very catchy. So when I started, I came in this game randomly. Then I was very inspired by this game because I saw that I was getting good support, so I joined this game.”
Moreover, she reflected on her experiences in the sport, saying, “I participated in all the championships whether it was state or district and I won a medal at every event. My experience with ‘Pencak Silat’ was very good because this is a different game as I said. This is an Indonesian martial art which has kicking swipes and punching.”
Training and Support
Aamina’s success was the result of years of hard work and determination under the guidance of skilled coaches. Despite facing societal criticism, her parents supported her every step of the way, which kept her motivated. Their unwavering encouragement played a key role in her success.
She further honed her skills by participating in various state and national championships in Rohtak, Haryana, Delhi, and Maharashtra, winning numerous gold and silver medals.
Inspiring Other Girls
Aamina’s victory serves as proof that girls can excel in any field. As a result, she has inspired many young girls to take up Pencak Silat and challenge the traditional stereotypes about female athletes.
Pencak Silat: A Martial Art of Skill
Pencak Silat involves using the entire body for strikes, grappling, and throws. Aamina’s silver medal is a testament to the dedication, skill, and perseverance required to succeed in this sport.
Overall, Aamina’s hard work, her family’s constant support, and her achievements on the international stage have not only made her a role model for others but also paved the way for more girls to follow their dreams and pursue martial arts.
