“My sole aim is to make women strong and brave.” – Disha Pandita
In a remarkable feat that has sent waves of pride through the nation, Disha Pandita, the first non-displaced Kashmiri Hindu girl from Pandit Colony, Sheikhpora, Budgam, has made history by winning a gold medal for India at the International Sqay Cup 2025 held in Podolsk, Moscow. Hailing from a region that has faced its own share of turmoil and displacement, Disha’s victory carries profound significance—not just as an athletic achievement, but as a triumph of perseverance, resilience and hope. Her victory not only elevates her personal standing but also shines a spotlight on the potential of the youth in Kashmir, showing that determination and skill can defy all odds. Competing alongside the best athletes from 19 countries, Disha’s gold medal win helped India secure second place in the overall medal tally, an inspiring achievement for both her and the entire nation.
Competing on such a grand international stage is never easy, especially when facing fierce global competition. Yet Disha stood tall and proved that with grit, determination and skill, any challenge can be overcome. Her victory was not just about the gold medal, but about showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship, discipline and resilience. Disha’s success didn’t just come from her technical prowess but also from her ability to stay focused and composed under immense pressure. She made her mark in the world of Sqay, a traditional martial art, and demonstrated that athletes from Jammu and Kashmir have the potential to make their presence felt on global platforms.
This was not Disha’s first international success. The gold medal in Moscow marks her sixth international medal, including a previous gold from the Sqay World Cup. Disha’s journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence and the continuous growth of her athletic career. Every victory further solidifies her position as one of the top Sqay athletes in the country and as a source of inspiration for young athletes, particularly women, in the region.
What makes Disha’s journey even more remarkable is her identity as the first non-displaced Hindu girl from Pandit Colony, Sheikhpora, to achieve such recognition in martial arts. In a region where opportunities for such feats have historically been limited, Disha’s success stands as a beacon of hope and determination. She represents not only her family and community but also the strength and resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Her victory is a clear signal that no matter the circumstances or the challenges, hard work, discipline and perseverance can lead to great achievements.
While excelling in her athletic career, Disha is also an Integrated Zoology student and manages to strike a balance between her academic responsibilities and sports commitments. She credits her ability to maintain this balance to the constant support from her parents, Predman Krishan Pandita and Jyoti and her mentor, Grandmaster Nazir Ahmad Mir. Both her coach and her parents have played pivotal roles in her success, guiding her through the intricacies of both sports and academics. For Disha, this guidance has been invaluable in helping her stay grounded and focused on her goals.
Disha’s success goes beyond personal glory—she is committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of young athletes, especially girls, in Jammu and Kashmir. Through Strong Waves Martial Arts Academy in Sheikhpora, Budgam, Disha is dedicated to training the next generation of Sqay athletes. Her mission is to bring international-level talent from the region and empower young women through the art of self-defense. Disha believes that martial arts can transform not just the body but also the mind, building confidence, discipline and resilience. She is also committed to combating the pervasive drug abuse in her community by offering a constructive, positive outlet for youth through sports.
“I want to produce international-level athletes from Jammu and Kashmir and ensure that every girl has the confidence to protect herself,” Disha says. “Martial arts can change lives—it empowers young people to rise above their circumstances and challenges.”
The academy is more than just a training facility, It is a space where young athletes can grow physically, mentally and emotionally, learning to balance the demands of sports with personal development. Disha is actively working to encourage more young people, especially women, to take up sports and self-defense, ensuring that they grow up confident, strong and capable of protecting themselves in any situation.
Disha has become a role model not only in Kashmir but also across India. Her journey has inspired many young girls and boys to dream big and work hard to make their dreams come true. She advocates for the youth to engage in sports, emphasizing that the lessons learnt in the sporting world extend far beyond the field or arena. “Sports give us strength—not just of body, but of mind and character,” she says. “They help us rise above limitations, stay away from bad influences and discover our true potential.”
Disha’s achievement has sparked celebrations across the nation, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. Local leaders, sports authorities and citizens alike have praised her for her determination and excellence. Her story has become an inspiration for many aspiring athletes, especially women in the region, showing them that they too can achieve greatness despite the odds.
Looking ahead, Disha has grand plans for the future. She hopes to represent India on even bigger international platforms, with her eyes set on world championships and even the Olympics.
Disha Pandita’s story is more than just about winning medals—it’s a story of resilience, dedication and the power of sports to change lives. From the quiet streets of Pandit Colony, Sheikhpora, Budgam, to the global stage in Moscow, Disha has proven that anything is possible when one combines hard work, focus and passion. Her achievements have paved the way for future athletes from Kashmir to follow in her footsteps, making her a true trailblazer and a symbol of strength for young women everywhere.
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