Shining on global sports stage, Raja brothers felicitated on Republic Day
Srinagar, Jan 26: After representing India at the 5th and 20th Pencak Silat World Championship held in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, Raja Azlaan Khan and Raja Mahir Khan from Zachaldara Handwara were honoured for their outstanding sports achievements on Republic Day in Handwara.
As per a release, on the occasion of Republic Day, the duo, who recently brought glory to India at international championships in Abu Dhabi, were felicitated in their hometown by Tehsildar Syed Basarat Rasool and later at Kupwara Police Lines by DC Kupwara, DDC Chairman Irfan Sultan Panditpuri, and IAS officer Ayushi Sudhan.
The duo represented India in the 5th Junior Pencak Silat World Championship and 20th Senior Pencak Silat Championships that were held in Abu Dhabi from December 18 to 22, 2024.
Raja Azlaan Khan demonstrated his passion and determination for the sport by securing a silver medal in the Open 1 category. Meanwhile, his elder brother, Raja Mahir Khan, displayed remarkable grit and strength, earning a bronze medal in the Open 2 category in seniors.
The brothers hail from Zachaldara Rajwar and have tirelessly worked hard to achieve this significant milestone. Their journey reflects not only their personal dedication but also the support and inspiration they have received from their mentors, family, schools, and community.
Currently, Raja Azlaan is studying at Tyndale Biscoe School in Srinagar, while Raja Mahir is pursuing his education at Kashmir Harvard. Both schools have shown immense support, playing a vital role in nurturing the athletic talents of the brothers.
The brothers owe their success to rigorous training under the guidance of their mentors, Iqbal Sir and Irfan Aziz Botta, with special backing from Adil Manzoor of Handwara. Their coaches have been instrumental in shaping their skills, sharpening their readiness, and ensuring their success at the international level.
Speaking about their achievements, the brothers expressed gratitude to their family, mentors, schools, and community. "This is just the beginning for us. We aim to bring more honours to our hometown and families and inspire the youth of our region so that they can lead a path toward mental resonance and a healthy lifestyle," said Mahir.
Their family and friends are all enjoying the moments of celebration as the kids have shown exceptional results.
Besides Pencak Silat, Raja Mahir Khan is also an active skier and also played his nationals in the same game.
“Sports are very important for us as they make us more focused and disciplined in life. All kids should try to play atleast one game they like besides the PlayStation and mobile, which serve as distractions towards their betterment. Sports are fuel to the mind, and plus it’s your own body and fuel, so just play a game," said Azlaan.