Sopore, Jan 20 (KNS): Nahida Nabi, a kabaddi coach and wrestler from North Kashmir's Sopore, has once again secured a position at the national level, earning the distinction of representing Jammu and Kashmir.
Official documents accessed by Kashmir News Service (KNS) reveal that she is the only sportsperson from Jammu and Kashmir selected to participate in the 72nd Senior National Kabaddi Championship (Women). The event will be held at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Telangana from January 27 to January 30, 2026.
In the championship, Nahida Nabi has been appointed as a Competition Manager and Technical Official, with responsibilities including participation in and conduct of kabaddi matches throughout the tournament.
Speaking to News Agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), Nahida Nabi said It is a proud moment for me to once again have the opportunity to represent Kashmir at the national level," she said.
"For a woman in this sport, the first battle is against countless doubts, even within one's own home," she said. "Convincing my parents was a struggle, and honestly, they still question my choice. But where others saw controversy, my brother saw potential. He became my rock, providing crucial emotional and financial backing, allowing me to defy expectations. In our conservative environment, his belief was the catalyst that turned my dreams of wrestling and kabaddi into an achievable goal."
Nahida called on families—especially young men—to support their sisters' ambitions. "I urge girls in Kashmir to come forward, play any sport they wish, and make everyone proud," she said, embodying the success that becomes possible when someone says, "I believe in you."
Notably, Nahida was recently appointed as a Technical Official for the 5th Khelo India University Games, held at the MGS University Indoor Stadium in Bikaner, Rajasthan. (KNS)