Mandi (Munish Sood)
In a remarkable display of talent and determination, Homani, a young athlete from the modest village of Shikawari in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, has etched her name in history by clinching the gold medal at the 6th Asian Savate Championship 2025.
The championship, held at New Delhi’s Talkatora Indoor Stadium from February 10 to 12, 2025, saw participants from across Asia competing in the French martial art of Savate, also known as French boxing. Homani’s victory not only underscores her personal dedication but also marks a significant milestone for Indian martial arts on the international stage.
Hailing from Shikawari, a village nestled in the serene landscapes of Thunag tehsil, Homani’s journey to the pinnacle of Savate is both inspiring and challenging. With a population of 790, Shikawari is a place where resources are limited, and opportunities in specialised sports like Savate are scarce.
Despite these constraints, Homani’s passion for martial arts was evident from a young age. She often trained in makeshift arenas, drawing inspiration from nature and the unwavering support of her family and community.
Her rigorous training regimen, combined with an indomitable spirit, prepared her to face and overcome formidable opponents during the championship. Each match showcased her technical prowess, strategic acumen, and the resilience that has become her hallmark.
The 6th Asian Savate Championship 2025 was a landmark event, bringing together elite athletes from the continent to compete and promote the art of Savate. India’s hosting of the championship not only provided a platform for athletes like Homani to showcase their skills but also played a pivotal role in popularising Savate within the country.
The event was organised by the Asian Savate Confederation, with matches and ceremonies broadcasted on platforms like United Sports, allowing a wider audience to witness the sport’s elegance and competitiveness.
Homani’s achievement has ignited a wave of enthusiasm in her hometown and beyond. Local authorities and community members are planning a grand felicitation ceremony to honour her accomplishment.
Moreover, her success has sparked interest among the youth in Shikawari and neighbouring villages, many of whom now aspire to pursue martial arts, seeing in Homani a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.
Homani expressed profound gratitude to her coaches, family and the community that stood by her through thick and thin. She emphasised the importance of perseverance and urged young athletes to chase their dreams, irrespective of the hurdles they might encounter.
