Introduction
In a country where cricket dominates headlines, a young girl from Andhra Pradesh has carved a niche for herself in the lesser-celebrated sport of carrom. Khazima, the teenage sensation, has made history by winning the Carrom World Championship, fulfilling a dream long cherished by her family. Coached by her father, Mahboob Basha, and inspired by her late brother, Abdul Rahman, Khazima’s journey is one of determination, resilience, and an undying passion for the sport.
Early Life and Introduction to Carrom
Born and raised in a modest household in Andhra Pradesh, Khazima was introduced to carrom at an early age by her father, who himself was an ardent lover of the game. Her brother, Abdul Rahman, was her first competitor and motivator, constantly pushing her to improve. He dreamt of seeing Khazima as a world champion, a dream she has now turned into reality.
Training Under Her Father
Mahboob Basha recognized his daughter’s potential early on and took it upon himself to hone her skills. Despite financial constraints, he ensured she had access to the best possible training environment. Long hours of practice, strategic game-play analysis, and unwavering discipline formed the backbone of her preparation. The coaching centre where she trained became her second home, and it is now her dream to renovate it and make it a hub for budding carrom players.
The Road to the World Championship
Khazima’s rise in the carrom world was not an overnight success. She participated in numerous national and international tournaments, proving her mettle at every stage. Her dedication and sheer talent led her to the grand stage of the Carrom World Championship, where she faced some of the best players from around the globe. With nerves of steel and precise striking, she emerged victorious, etching her name in history as India’s latest world champion.
Fulfilling Her Brother’s Dream
Abdul Rahman’s untimely demise left a void in Khazima’s life, but it also fueled her determination to succeed. Every shot she played, every match she won, was dedicated to him. Holding the championship trophy, she felt the weight of his dream finally realized. It was not just her victory but a tribute to the one who always believed in her potential.
Giving Back to the Sport
Now that she has achieved her first major milestone, Khazima aspires to give back to the sport that has given her so much. She hopes to renovate her training centre, making it a state-of-the-art facility for young players who lack resources but have the passion to excel. Her long-term vision includes promoting carrom across India, conducting workshops, and encouraging more youngsters, especially girls, to take up the sport professionally.
The Road Ahead
With her first world title secured, Khazima is now eyeing more championships, including defending her title and aiming for greater heights in the international circuit. She continues to train rigorously, understanding that every victory is just a stepping stone to the next challenge.
Conclusion
Khazima’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance, family support, and an unrelenting dream. From playing in a small coaching centre to becoming a world champion, her story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in unconventional sports. As she steps into the future, she carries with her the aspirations of a nation and the promise of making carrom a recognized and respected sport in India.
