Hyderabad's Karate kid

Representing one’s country on an international platform and winning a medal is no cakewalk. Purvi Sharma, an 11-year-old from the city, recently won a silver medal in the under-12 kids Kumite event at the WKU World Championship 2018 held in Athens, Greece. 

Being the youngest member of the Indian contingent (which consisted of 11 members, including eight participants and three officials), Purvi has made her family, school and coach extremely proud. Continuous training under her coach Mohd. Pasha, from the age of seven, propelled her to win many state medals as well.

Purvi started learning karate as part of her extra-curricular activities at St Peter’s Grammar School and has received a brown belt.

“It was not an easy task for us. We had to arrange a good amount of money at the last minute, as her sponsor backed out. We have had to take a huge loan. However, the joy of watching my child represent the country and win a silver medal has made us very happy and we are proud of her,” share Amita and Sanjay Sharma, Purvi’s parents.

The constant support of her family, principal, teachers, and her coach played a vital role in Purvi’s achievement. Her mother quit her job to be with her daughter during practice sessions. And her elder sister Surabhi along with her coach, who are her biggest motivation, have always guided her. Her school principal, Shanti, had let Purvi write her exams at a time convenient to her, as she had a few visa issues. “I just could not think of missing my studies or my coaching. Waking up early, preparing for my exams and at the same time preparing for the competition was a very tough task for me. I am very happy and thankful and now I aim to win the gold in the next competition that is to be held in Austria in 2019,” concludes Purvi.