Kashmir’s Fardeem Hussain to lead India at World Powerlifting Championship

Srinagar, Nov 21: International powerlifter Fardeem Hussain, 22, has been named captain of Team India for the 2025 World Powerlifting Championship in Italy, marking another major milestone for the Kashmiri athlete.

Hussain, 22, rose to international fame last year after securing three gold medals at the World Powerlifting Championship 2024 in Bangkok. With that victory, he became the first powerlifter from Jammu and Kashmir to achieve such a feat.

His stellar performance in Bangkok cemented his position for future competitions. This year, he has been nominated to lead the Indian contingent at the World Powerlifting Championship, scheduled to be held in Italy on November 25.

“I recently received the call to participate in the World Championship. What surprised me was that I would be leading the team of powerlifters from India this season. Right now, I am preparing for the championship, and I hope to bag gold again,” Hussain said.

He added that representing India on global stages has always been his dream.

“Leading the team on the world stage is a responsibility I carry with a full heart and discipline. This year is about pushing limits, breaking records, and bringing the title home for India,” he said.

Beyond his international triumphs, Hussain has maintained a dominant legacy in domestic competitions. He is a National Powerlifting Champion, a North India Champion, and a multiple-time State and District Champion, consistently proving his excellence across various competitive levels.

Speaking on his regimen, Hussain noted that he has been preparing rigorously for the last six months.

“Apart from the gym, I have been strictly managing my diet. I know the competition is tough, but my coach and mentor, Ishtiyaq Ahmad Khan, has been constantly motivating me to win gold in the championship,” he said.

Hussain is also dedicated to grooming the next generation of athletes. “I am currently mentoring a few students who will also participate in the national competition in the coming year,” he added.