Muslim teen wins Asian karate silver in India
Louiza Khan’s journey reflects a growing movement of young Muslims defining success through devotion, discipline, and self-belief
MUMBAI, India (MNTV) — Hafiza Louiza Khan Ziauddin, a young Indian Muslim who has memorized the Qur’an, has won the silver medal in the Under-18 category at the Asian Open Karate Championship, held recently at Mumbai’s Andheri Sports Complex — a victory that has inspired pride across India’s Muslim community.
According to Clarion India, Louiza, a student of Maharashtra College, finished second after a close contest with a Sri Lankan opponent. Her performance, marked by technical precision and mental composure, was praised by coaches and fellow athletes from across Asia.
Louiza said her journey was shaped by faith and focus in equal measure. “Memorising the Qur’an taught me patience and discipline — the same values I use in karate,” she said. “My mother wanted me to have both knowledge and strength, and I thank Allah for guiding me through both.”
Her coach, Khan Salahuddin, who runs the Budkonn Foundation’s karate training program in Mumbai, said she embodies the connection between belief and hard work. “Louiza is one of the most disciplined students I’ve ever trained. Her success shows what dedication and conviction can achieve,” he said.
Since beginning her training as a school student, Louiza has competed across district, state, and national levels, earning ten medals, including two golds. She has also completed a referee certification course and is now preparing for the upcoming World Karate Championship.
Observers say her story resonates beyond sport — challenging long-standing narratives that separate religious devotion from modern aspiration. Her achievement is being celebrated as part of a broader movement among young Indian Muslims who see faith as a source of empowerment rather than constraint.
Louiza said her next goal is to represent India internationally and encourage girls to take up self-defence. “Every girl should learn to protect herself. It gives you confidence and balance — both are part of faith,” she said.
Her mother described the victory as the realization of two prayers — to see her daughter live by the Qur’an and to stand strong in the world.
From Mumbai’s narrow lanes to a continental podium, Hafiza Louiza Khan Ziauddin has come to symbolise a new generation of Muslim women whose strength is rooted not in defiance of their faith, but in its quiet power.
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