In a proud moment for Indian sports, especially for the Kashmir Valley, international taekwondo athlete and Fit India Ambassador Danish Manzoor recently met the Honourable Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, at his New Delhi residence. The meeting was more than a courtesy call—it was a moment of recognition, motivation, and mutual respect. Danish described the interaction as deeply inspiring, lauding Mr. Birla for his humility and encouragement.
At just 26, Danish Manzoor has already carved a niche for himself on the international taekwondo stage. Hailing from Baramulla, a picturesque yet often overlooked district of Jammu & Kashmir, he stands among the first athletes from the region to represent India at global Olympic-ranking events.
Danish’s journey is one of grit and determination. He began practicing taekwondo at the age of 13, and his passion for the sport has propelled him to remarkable heights. His recent participation in an international training camp with the Uzbekistan National Team is a testament to his growing stature in the sport.
Now, the focus is firmly on his upcoming challenges: the World Taekwondo President’s Cup – Oceania G3 Olympic Ranking Event and the Australia Open 2025, both set to take place in Gold Coast, Australia this August. These tournaments are crucial steps toward his Olympic aspirations.
Danish’s achievements speak volumes. In 2022, he represented Team India in the fiercely competitive Israel Open G2 Olympic Ranking Championship, competing in the Men’s 58 kg weight category. A year later, he secured an impressive 6th rank at the World Taekwondo President’s Cup (Asia Region)—a performance that turned heads and solidified his place among Asia’s top contenders.
His success is powered by relentless training and the guidance of dedicated mentors, including Master Atul Pangotra (Chief Coach, J&K) and Aasif Ahmed Shah (NIS, Strength & Conditioning). Danish also credits Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, for her unwavering support throughout his athletic journey.
As a Fit India Ambassador, Danish doesn’t just aim for medals—he aims to inspire. His story resonates with young athletes, especially those from remote or underrepresented areas, proving that geography is no barrier to greatness.
“Coming from Baramulla to the world stage is not just my story,” says Danish. “It’s a message to every aspiring athlete that dreams do come true with discipline, support, and belief.”
Taekwondo, the Korean martial art emphasizing agility, speed, and discipline, is rapidly gaining popularity in India. Thanks to athletes like Danish Manzoor, it’s now finding its place in the Indian sporting mainstream.
With the world watching and the tricolor close to his heart, Danish Manzoor is not just fighting matches—he’s fighting for pride, for representation, and for a future where every child from the mountains of Kashmir can dream of Olympic gold.
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