Shagufta Naaz, orphaned Siwan teen, wins National Grappling gold.

• Shagufta Naaz, a 17-year-old from Siwan, Bihar, won gold and silver medals at the 18th National Junior Grappling Championship in Haridwar.
• She secured the gold medal in the junior 52-kilogram category, defeating opponents from Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana.
• Despite being orphaned at a young age, Shagufta was supported by her maternal uncle, enabling her to pursue her passion for grappling.
• Shagufta has won 10 national medals in grappling over the past three years, including a gold at the 2023 Open National Championships.
• Her success serves as an inspiration for girls, particularly from rural and Muslim communities, to pursue careers in sports.

Why It Matters: Orphaned Shagufta's gold inspires girls and defies societal norms.