City girls beats odds to win karate gold

For eight-year-old Salni Vishwkarma, a gold medal at an international karate championship in Nepal is more than just a sporting triumph — it is the result of grit, free coaching, and the determination of a family fighting financial hardship every day.

A resident of Chanakyapuri in Gota, Salni won the gold medal for India at the 12th Mount Everest International Karate Championship 2026, held in Nepal from May 29 to June 2. Competing in the yellow belt colour category, in the 8-9 years age group and 21-25 kg weight division, she emerged champion after winning three tough bouts in a row.

Salni defeated players from Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan to finish on top. The championship witnessed participation from 16 countries.

What makes the win more remarkable is Salni’s background. Her father, Vijay Vishwkarma, originally from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, works as a daily-wage carpenter, while her mother, Babliben, undertakes small sewing job to support the family. The couple live in a rented house and are raising two daughters, with Salni being the younger one.

“We have limited means, but never limited our daughter’s dreams. Seeing her win gold for India feels like our life’s struggle has found meaning,” said her father.

Salni’s trip to Nepal became possible only after three small donors came forward with financial support. She is trained by coach Aarav Rajput, who has been associated with karate since childhood and says he has trained many girls free of cost over the years.

“Salni’s gold is a proud moment for all of us. She showed courage, discipline and focus far beyond her age. Winning at an event with participants from 16 countries is no small achievement,” Rajput said.

Speaking softly but confidently after her win, Salni said, “I am very happy to win the gold medal for India. I want to work harder and keep doing better in the future.”

For this modest family, Salni’s gold medal is not just a victory — it is the beginning of a bigger dream.