Bharatpur, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Khelo India Games have once again proven their dedication to inclusivity as Shalina Sayer Siddhi from Karnatak University, Dharwad, garnered her inaugural medal at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) on Friday. Competing in the women's 57kg freestyle wrestling event held at Lohagarh Stadium, Shalina captured the bronze medal, a significant achievement for the Siddi community she proudly represents.

In a fierce competition, Shalina triumphed over Bhanu from Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, Haryana, securing a 2-1 victory in her final group match to claim the medal.

The Siddi community, known to have African roots, has been part of India's cultural heritage for centuries and holds a crucial position in the nation's social landscape. Many Siddis are acknowledged as Scheduled Tribes across various states. In this context, Shalina's achievement is not merely a personal triumph but also underscores the opportunities fostered by initiatives such as Khelo India.

“I have taken part in the Khelo India Youth Games previously, but this marks my first appearance at the Khelo India University Games. I arrived filled with hope, confident that I would earn a medal, although uncertain about its color. I am thrilled to have won,” she expressed, alongside Ismail, the head of the Karnatak University team.

Her path to the podium was far from straightforward. The team endured a challenging three-day train journey to reach Rajasthan. “The train ride took us three days, making it a difficult journey. Yet, now that I have triumphed, all that effort feels worthwhile,” shared the wrestler, who has dedicated a decade to her sport.

Shalina’s success also highlights the social challenges that athletes from marginalized communities frequently face. Despite ongoing discrimination based on skin color in various parts of India, Shalina noted that her own experiences have been different. “I live in Dharwad and have grown up among local children. Honestly, I have not faced such issues. Instead, I receive a great deal of respect due to my accomplishments in sports. People regard me as an achiever; my sister serves as a police officer in Bangalore,” she stated.

During our discussion, Shalina mentioned another accomplished athlete from her community, Pro Kabaddi League player Sushil Motesh Kambrekar of the Bengal Warriors. “Siddis are making strides. He is a tremendous inspiration to our community. I have yet to meet him, but I aspire to create a name for myself that makes everyone proud,” she remarked.

With her bronze medal, Shalina not only enhances her list of accolades—having previously won bronze at an All-India University competition earlier this year—but also reinforces the message of inclusivity that the Khelo India platform seeks to promote.