Humble backgrounds, big dreams: Rurka Kalan students bring home karate medals

Five students of Government Primary School, Rurka Kalan, brought laurels to their institution by winning medals at the 18th Indo-Nepal Karate Championship held in Batala. The young athletes, coming from humble family backgrounds, showcased exceptional talent, discipline and determination.

According to their teacher, who arranged a private karate coach for the students, — an uncommon initiative in government schools — the children trained rigorously and were eager to compete against players from Nepal and other regions.

In the U-6 category, Prabhjot Singh clinched a gold medal. His father works as a carpenter.

In the U-9 category, Palak and Loveleen secured gold medals. Palak comes from a family where sports talent runs strong. Her father is a vegetable vendor. Loveleen’s father runs a car repair workshop.

Another student Gurjot won a silver medal in the U-9 category.

Sukhman earned a bronze medal in the under-10 category, his father works as a labourer in Manila.

Teacher Buta Ram, who has been instrumental in supporting and motivating the children, said the exposure to private competitions helped the students shed their fear and boosted their confidence.

“'Private mukable vich bacheya da darr nikalda.' Kids were so excited to see the other players in proper kits. This has given a boost to their confidence,” he said.

He added that the children’s victories have made their families immensely proud, especially after initial hesitation from parents about sending them to competitions.

“Kids also felt elated. Now, we will not allow the karate coach to go and keep on training the kids so that they can rise and shine in their lives. We are now preparing for another championship,” he added. The school is now planning regular training sessions and hopes to provide better facilities so that more children can participate. Teachers believe that such achievements not only promote sports, but also help build discipline, focus and self-belief among rural students, opening new opportunities for their future.