Karate stars without support and recognition despite winning 420 gold, 60 silver and 30 bronze medals

Bhavisha Singh

Bhavisha Singh, Sharmila Gharu and Divya Kathawate.

Do these names ring a bell? I guess not.

What if I told you that these girls have won a combined total of 422 gold medals, 61 silver and 30 bronze in local, national and international tournaments? They have made India proud in karate tournaments in China, Malaysia, Japan, Taiwan, Chinese Taipei, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan and France.

Friends, only in India would such teenage prodigies go without fame and support. The team is currently in the karate championships at national level, and have qualified for the internationals in Germany. Unfortunately, not a single sports body has come forward to sponsor their trip.

Here is the story of one of the Karate Girls: Bhavisha Singh's family came to India from Hong Kong because of financial reasons. However, hardships did not stop her.

In september of 2002, she enrolled in a local karate coaching class. The first time she took part at a competitive level, was at Vasai Taluka Kalakrida Mahotsav in Maharashtra. Winning nothing at the event, Bhavisha returned with the conviction that she had to practice hard.

And she did, letting nothing stop her. Not even an injury that had the doctor declaring she wouldn't be able to continue with karate.

Here is her video about her story.