Can KIYG 2025's Nishika Aggarwal Break Cultural Barriers with Four Medals?

New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) When Nishika Aggarwal from Telangana stepped onto the mats at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, her drive was fueled by more than just athletic aspirations. Hailing from a conservative Aggarwal family in Hyderabad, a background where girls typically don’t engage in competitive sports, Nishika not only embraced gymnastics but also thrived in it.

The 17-year-old Khelo India Athlete (KIA) concluded her impressive campaign by securing four medals, including two golds and two bronzes in artistic gymnastics at the IG Stadium in New Delhi. She achieved gold in the All-Around and Vaulting Table events, along with bronze medals in the Uneven Bars and Balancing Beam.

Nishika's entry into sports challenges the cultural expectations often tied to the Aggarwal community, which is traditionally focused on business and education.

“In our community, girls are rarely encouraged to pursue sports. Without my parents' support and understanding, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Nishika shared with SAI Media. “They have consistently been my backbone, never making me feel hindered in this field,” she continued.

Feeling proud to have challenged traditional norms, Nishika began her gymnastics journey at just seven years old. “I’m not here to judge my culture, but everything evolves. I’m thrilled that more young people from the Aggarwal community are engaging in sports, inspired by my achievements. Their parents are now more supportive, and I believe with determination and backing, anything is possible,” stated the 17-year-old.

A student in class 12 at Gaudium School, Telangana, Nishika's gymnastics journey commenced at the LB Stadium in Hyderabad during a summer camp at the age of seven. She currently trains at Gaudium Sportopia, a SAI-accredited center, under the guidance of coach Manoj Rana, steadily becoming one of India’s most promising young gymnasts.

“Initially, I joined gymnastics for fun, as I was always active in school activities. My motivation shifted when I started winning medals and began serious training under Manoj Sir at age 12,” Nishika recounted.

Transitioning into the senior category last year was a daunting experience for her, filled with self-doubt about performing well in the older age group. However, through hard work, she regained her confidence before competing in KIYG 2025.

From the Khelo India Games, she leaves with a lasting connection, having trained and competed at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, which she regards as her second home.

“This gym is significant for me. I’ve been here for numerous national camps and keep returning. Though I’m from Telangana, Delhi feels like my home ground,” Nishika expressed. “The facilities, ambiance, and energy here bring out the best in me. Competing in this venue is exhilarating.”

As she looks forward to the Asian Championships in June, which will mark her debut at an Asian event, Nishika shares, “My inspiration is gymnast Aruna Reddy, the first Indian to win a world medal in gymnastics, who trains at the same gym. I’ve learned immensely from her journey. Aruna Didi has faced numerous injuries yet continues to strive for her comeback. This reflects my own life mantra – ‘enjoy what you do and never give up’,” concluded the Khelo India Athlete.