Punjab Newsline, Sports:
Six players from the Jammu & Kashmir women’s team will compete in hijab at the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship, expressing confidence and determination
The 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship, which began on January 4 in the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi), is drawing attention not only for high-level competition but also for a powerful social message. The Jammu & Kashmir women’s volleyball team has arrived in Varanasi with six players who will take the court wearing hijab, confidently asserting that their attire represents freedom, not restriction.
Sadaf Manzoor, a player from the Jammu & Kashmir team, said, “Hijab is our freedom. Wearing it while playing helps us perform even better. No one has ever stopped us, and we have complete support from our families. That is why we have been able to travel all the way from Kashmir to Varanasi.” She emphasized that people should not judge athletes based on what they wear, adding that hijab is a personal choice and a symbol of independence, not a barrier.
The Jammu & Kashmir women’s squad consists of 14 players in total. Among them, six players will compete wearing hijab on the volleyball court. Some of these athletes have been playing volleyball for nearly six years, while others have taken up the sport over the last two years. This combination of experience and youthful enthusiasm has strengthened the team’s confidence ahead of the national tournament.
Speaking about their journey, the players said their primary focus is on the game and giving their best performance for the team and their state. They believe that dedication, discipline, and hard work matter far more than appearance when it comes to sports. The team members also expressed pride in representing Jammu & Kashmir on a national platform.
The national championship in Varanasi features teams from across the country, making it a highly competitive event. In this setting, the presence of hijab-wearing players from Kashmir is being widely appreciated as a positive and empowering example. Their participation sends a clear message that sports and personal identity can coexist harmoniously.
As the matches progress, all eyes will be on the court where these players aim to prove their talent and determination. The Kashmir women’s team is not just playing for medals, but also delivering a strong message—that confidence, choice, and freedom can go hand in hand with sporting excellence.