Bilqis Maqbool, a determined young athlete hailing from the Budgam district in Central Kashmir, has emerged as a shining star in the world of Pencak Silat. Her recent triumph at the Asmita Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League (North Zone) in Agra, where she clinched the gold medal in the fiercely competitive 70-75 kg weight category, has brought immense pride and recognition to Jammu and Kashmir.
A dedicated student pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Sports from Guru Nanak Dev University in Punjab, Bilqis has always harbored a deep passion for sports since her childhood. Her participation in various games laid the foundation for her eventual specialization in Pencak Silat, a traditional Indonesian martial art known for its dynamic movements and strategic combat.
Bilqis’s victory is all the more remarkable given the obstacles she overcame. After experiencing a string of defeats that took a toll on her confidence, she faced a challenging two-year hiatus from the sport. However, driven by her unwavering spirit and the steadfast support of her family and coach Mohammad Iqbal, she resolved to make a comeback.
“I am absolutely delighted and honored to have achieved this milestone,” Bilqis shared. “Winning the gold medal at the North Zone level is a testament to my hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Beating strong contenders from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh was a thrilling experience, and I am thrilled to have made a successful comeback after a two-year hiatus.”
She emphasizes the importance of her support system in her journey. “This achievement would not have been possible without them. My inspiration continues to be my father and coach, who have been my guiding light throughout my journey,” she added. Bilqis particularly credits her parents for their unwavering encouragement, recalling how their words of wisdom and support helped her regain focus and motivation when she felt like giving up. “My parents in particular have been encouraging me to continue pursuing my passion for the sport, even when I felt like quitting. Their words of wisdom and encouragement helped me to change my mindset and give the game another chance.”
Coach Mohammad Iqbal has been instrumental in honing Bilqis’s skills and providing her with the strategic guidance needed to excel in Pencak Silat. He recognized her potential early on and has worked tirelessly to nurture her talent, instilling in her the values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Bilqis’s victory serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring athletes in Jammu and Kashmir but also to young girls across the country. Her story exemplifies the power of resilience, determination, and the importance of family support in achieving one’s dreams. She hopes that her success will encourage more girls to take up sports and pursue their passions fearlessly.
Looking ahead, Bilqis is determined to continue pushing boundaries and achieving even greater milestones in her athletic career. With renewed confidence and motivation, she is committed to rigorous training and further refining her skills. “I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, and I look forward to continuing to work hard and push myself to new heights,” she said. Bilqis Maqbool’s golden triumph is a testament to her dedication and a source of pride for Jammu and Kashmir, marking her as a rising star to watch in the world of Pencak Silat.
