Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir –
In a powerful and emotional statement, Mir Bilquis — a dedicated torchbearer for water sports in India — opened her heart to express sincere appreciation to the media community across the country. Her words weren’t just gratitude, but a recognition of the quiet, consistent force that has helped bring water sports into the national spotlight.
“From the very beginning, the media stood by us. You didn’t just report; you believed in our journey,” said Mir Bilquis with emotion. “Your stories, your coverage, and your unwavering presence have given water sports the attention and recognition it deserves. It is because of you that our struggle has transformed into a story of hope. Thank you for being our voice when no one else listened.”
When Leadership Inspires Dreams
Her message didn’t end there. With deep reverence, Mir Bilquis also thanked the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his encouraging words during his popular address Mann Ki Baat. For Bilquis, this wasn’t just recognition — it was a turning point for her student, Mohsin Ali.
“My student, Mohsin, was visibly moved by the Prime Minister’s mention. It’s not every day that a young athlete from a small town in J&K hears his dreams echoed by the nation’s leader,” she shared. “His belief is stronger, his goals are clearer, and his spirit is higher. Inshallah, with continued support, Mohsin and many others like him will represent India at the Olympics.”
Mohsin Ali: A Symbol of Resilience
Coming from Jammu & Kashmir, Mohsin Ali’s rise in water sports is nothing short of inspiring. With limited infrastructure but a sky-high spirit, he trained tirelessly under the mentorship of Mir Bilquis. Today, he stands as a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
The recognition by Prime Minister Modi was more than a pat on the back — it was a national signal that the story of J&K’s youth is not just regional but belongs to the nation. And young athletes everywhere are listening.
Media: More Than Just Messengers
As more voices rally behind water sports, experts are echoing one clear truth — the media has played a transformative role. By spotlighting underrepresented sports and telling human stories of triumph and struggle, the media has helped shift public perception beyond mainstream sports like cricket and football.
Mir Bilquis highlighted that this movement isn’t about her alone. “It’s about the kids out there dreaming by the riverside, unaware that someone sees them, someone believes in them. With the media by our side, that belief multiplies.”
The Journey Ahead
There’s a renewed energy in Bilquis and her team. They are not only building athletes — they are building dreams. With government support, media recognition, and unwavering local enthusiasm, the road ahead looks promising.
“The world will soon witness champions from the valleys of Kashmir standing tall at the global stage,” she said with hope. “The tricolor will wave not just from stadiums but from the heart of every athlete we nurture.”
