Emerging Talents Shine at Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg
Khelo India Winter Games: A New Era for Winter Sports
Gulmarg (J&K), Feb 28: From February 23 to 26, the picturesque meadows of Gulmarg transformed into a vibrant arena for the 6th Khelo India Winter Games. While seasoned athletes showcased their skills on the slopes, a fresh wave of talent was quietly making its mark.
These newcomers arrived with borrowed equipment, diverse backgrounds, and aspirations that seemed boundless, leaving an indelible impact on the snowy landscape.
Among the standout performers was Jiah Aryan, a 17-year-old from Bengaluru, who exhibited remarkable skiing prowess, earning two bronze medals in the Alpine events—Slalom and Giant Slalom. Her approach was aggressive, demonstrating confidence and skill.
“I have been passionate about winter sports since I was 10,” Jiah shared, reflecting on her journey that began at the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM&WS). Her parents made a bold choice to send her to train at the prestigious Kron Platz Racing Centre in Italy.
Jiah humorously noted that her interest in winter sports stemmed from a desire for something different, saying, “the grass is greener on the other side,” with her version being the allure of snow.
Talent scouts have already identified Jiah as a promising athlete for India's winter sports future. She, along with five other female athletes, has secured sponsorship from the Reliance Foundation, which provides comprehensive support including physiotherapy, sports psychology, nutrition, and training resources.
In the realm of elite sports, having the right infrastructure is crucial. For the first time, Indian winter athletes are experiencing a supportive environment. Jiah is currently balancing her studies in 12th grade at the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) in Bengaluru with her training.
As the only child of Aryan I C, who manages an old-age home, and Janvi Aryan, an IBM employee, Jiah's parents have simply encouraged her ambitions. Her goal is clear: “I want to be the first Indian female winter sports athlete to win a gold medal,” she asserts with determination.
Renu Danu, another athlete from the CRPF, has made impressive strides in just two years, earning three silver medals in Nordic events. Her rapid progress highlights the potential for success in winter sports.
Kaamya Karthikeyan, 19, made history for Maharashtra by winning gold in Ski Mountaineering, showcasing the expanding reach of winter sports beyond traditional regions.
Kajal Kumari Rai, 25, from Meghalaya, excelled in Nordic events, securing two gold medals, while veteran Aanchal Thakur, 29, claimed her first gold in Giant Slalom, blending experience with ambition.
For the host region, Zubair Ahmad Lone brought home the only gold for Jammu and Kashmir in Snowboarding Giant Slalom, adding significance to the local achievements.
Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized the importance of these games in the context of India's vision for 2047, aiming for a developed nation where sports play a vital role.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed aspirations to host the Olympic Games in India by 2036, with initiatives like the “Khelo Bharat Niti” focusing on sports infrastructure and athlete development as key investments.
Winter sports, once considered niche, are gradually gaining recognition in India. The Khelo India Winter Games serve as a crucial platform for emerging athletes, paving the way for future success.
Over four days in Gulmarg, young athletes from various backgrounds competed alongside seasoned soldiers, showcasing the growing diversity in winter sports participation. The presence of physiotherapists and sports psychologists signifies a shift towards a more professional approach in training.
As the competition unfolded, it became evident that India is not merely participating in winter sports; it is actively preparing for a brighter future.