From Dal Lake to National Glory: Mohsin Ali Kand Wins First Gold at Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025
Image via IANS
Srinagar, Aug 21 (TheTrendingPeople.com): From rowing a Shikara on Dal Lake to standing on the podium with a gold medal around his neck, Mohsin Ali Kand’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. The 17-year-old kayaker from Jammu and Kashmir made history on Thursday by clinching the first gold medal of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 in the 1000m men’s kayaking event, clocking an impressive 4:12:717.
As Mohsin stepped out of Dal Lake, he was greeted by thunderous cheers from the home crowd. Overwhelmed with emotion, he hugged his coach, Bilquis Mir, a former international paddler and Olympic judge, as tears streamed down his face.
A Journey Rooted in Determination
A Class 12 student at SP Higher Secondary School, Mohsin juggles academics, training, and part-time work. After school, he rows a Shikara on Dal Lake to help support his family and earn money for his sports diet.
The son of Fida Hussain Kand, a carpenter struggling to provide for a family of five, Mohsin acknowledges that his father’s encouragement shaped his career.
“It was my father who was instrumental in my decision to take up water sports. Despite our financial struggles, he ensured I never gave up on my dream,” Mohsin said after his victory.
Overcoming Financial Struggles
Water sports at the professional level demand a protein-rich, carbohydrate-rich, and electrolyte-balanced diet, something Mohsin admits he often cannot afford. Yet, his determination and discipline compensated for the financial constraints.
“It is very difficult for me to purchase the necessary diet for training, but my burning desire to represent India keeps me going,” he said.
Rowing a Shikara every day not only helps him contribute financially but also strengthens his stamina — something he believes gives him an edge over athletes from other parts of the country.
“Practicing in high-altitude Kashmir develops stamina that many athletes from the plains don’t have. That motivates me further,” he explained.
Early Start and Support
Hailing from Kand Mohalla inside Dal Lake, Mohsin started paddling when he was just seven years old. His raw talent was refined with the help of the Jammu and Kashmir Kayaking and Canoeing Association, which provided him with training and infrastructure.
“Apart from my father, the association deserves credit for my success. They gave me the necessary exposure and guidance,” he acknowledged.
Triumph Against the Odds
What makes Mohsin’s win remarkable is that he has limited experience in national-level events compared to many of his competitors, some of whom boast international exposure. Despite this, his focus and hard work helped him overcome the odds and secure victory.
His gold medal is not just a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for Jammu and Kashmir, showcasing the region’s potential in water sports.
Eyes on International Glory
For Mohsin, the gold medal at the Khelo India Water Sports Festival is just the beginning. His aspirations are clear — to represent India in the Asian Games, World Championships, and the Olympics.
“The thing that keeps me going is my dream of wearing India’s jersey at the highest level. This gold medal gives me confidence that my dream is achievable,” he said.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
Mohsin Ali Kand’s journey from rowing a Shikara on Dal Lake to winning gold at a national event reflects the power of determination, resilience, and sacrifice. Despite financial hardships, his dedication to the sport and his family’s unwavering support have paved the way for his success.
As India celebrates his first gold at the Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025, Mohsin’s story stands as an inspiration for young athletes across the nation. With continued support, his dream of representing India at the Olympics may soon turn into reality.