KARACHI:
Recently while Pakistan’s national hero Arshad Nadeem has been rightfully celebrated for his achievements in sports, another group of exceptional athletes has quietly achieved a remarkable feat that deserves equal recognition and praise. These athletes are the Christian daughters of our nation who recently demonstrated their extraordinary talent and determination at the Asian-Pacific-African Combined Powerlifting Championship held in South Africa.
In July, these remarkable women brought home an impressive 15 gold medals from the championship, showcasing their strength, skill and perseverance. Despite their outstanding achievements, which reflect the highest level of dedication and excellence, there has been a noticeable lack of official recognition and reward for their accomplishments. The absence of acknowledgment from governmental bodies is a glaring oversight that diminishes the true spirit of national pride and celebration.
The media’s focus has been on Arshad Nadeem, and rightly so, as he is indeed a national hero. However, it is equally important to recognise and celebrate the achievements of all Pakistanis who bring honour to our country, regardless of their background. These Christian female athletes represent not just their community but the entire nation, embodying the values of hard work and dedication that are cherished across all segments of Pakistani society.
It is essential to remember that every individual residing in Pakistan, whether Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Hindu or Parsi, contributes to the country’s pride and progress. Our national identity is enriched by the diversity and achievements of all its citizens. The white stripe in our flag, which symbolises peace and harmony, should not be a mere emblem but a reflection of our inclusive spirit and respect for all communities.
The Christian daughters who excelled at the Asian-Pacific-African Combined Powerlifting Championship are not just athletes, they are symbols of Pakistan’s potential and unity. Their achievements should be celebrated with the same fervour as any other national success, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they receive the acknowledgment they rightfully deserve.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
