Kupwara: Rashid Shafi of Kupwara district brought laurels to the country by winning a gold medal in the 65 kg category at the Nordic International Wushu Championship, held in Sweden from December 12 to 15, 2025.
Representing the Khelo India Wushu Centre, Handwara, Rashid secured the top podium finish after defeating a Swedish opponent in the finals.
Rashid Shafi has been training at the Khelo India Centre, Handwara, for the past four years. His consistent performances earned him selection in the Indian Wushu contingent during the national selection trials held earlier this year at the Khelo India Centre, Meerut.
Following the championship, the Indian Embassy in Sweden felicitated the Indian Wushu team. The Ambassador of India lauded the medalists and commended the Wushu Association of India (WAI) for the team’s outstanding performance on the international stage. He particularly congratulated Rashid Shafi for achieving international success despite facing numerous challenges and hardships.
The President of the Wushu Association of India, Shri Vijay Saraf, along with Vice President Ranjeet Kalra, General Secretary Bhavneet, and Treasurer Sohit Sharma, also congratulated Rashid Shafi for his exceptional achievement.
Dronacharya Awardee Kuldeep Handoo congratulated Rashid Shafi, his coach Ajaz Hassan, and District Secretary Ajaz for their collective efforts, stating that they have made the entire nation and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir proud. Highlighting the difficulties faced by athletes from far-flung areas in reaching international platforms, he credited the J&K Sports Council for establishing the Khelo India Centre at Handwara, which has provided world-class facilities and strengthened grassroots-level training.
Kuldeep Handoo further appreciated the J&K Sports Council for its sustained efforts in promoting Wushu and contributing to the growing popularity of the sport in the region.
