LAHORE - Pakistan’s Bano Kausar performed exceptionally to defeat India’s Richa Sharma in the final of the 48kg Ju-Jitsu Contact category at the 9th Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship 2025, held in Amman, Jordan.
Bano’s journey to the top of the podium was nothing short of remarkable. On her way to the final, she showcased exceptional skill and resilience, overcoming Thailand’s Sugun Nutchaya in the semifinal bout. With tactical brilliance and unwavering determination, Bano stood tall against seasoned competitors, ultimately emerging as the undisputed champion in her category. What makes this triumph even more commendable is the context in which it came. Pakistan participated in the championship with a modest contingent of just six athletes, three male and three female competitors, entirely on a self-sponsored basis. No financial support was provided by Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) or the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA). In stark contrast, other nations, including India with 75 athletes, fielded large contingents ranging from 60 to 145 players.
Despite these constraints, the Pakistani squad punched above its weight. Earlier in the competition, the duo of Kainat Arif and Isra Waseem secured bronze medals in the Duo Women and Show Women-Adult System categories. Another pair, M Ali Rashid and M Yousaf Ali, claimed bronze in the Duo Men’s event. In total, Pakistan finished the championship with four medals, one gold and three bronze.
It is worth noting that this was Bano Kausar’s debut appearance at the Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship, yet she approached the competition with the poise of a seasoned athlete. Already an Asian MMA champion, her foray into Ju-Jitsu has now further cemented her status as one of Pakistan’s brightest martial arts stars.
The Pakistan Ju-Jitsu Federation (PJJF) has continued to focus on nurturing talent despite facing a lack of facilities and financial challenges. Special credit has been extended to coach M Altaf, whose tireless dedication and talent-scouting efforts helped unearth and develop Bano into a national gem.
The remarkable achievements of the Pakistani athletes have drawn widespread praise. Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah, Director General of PSB, Secretary General of POA, and officials of the PJJF have all extended their heartfelt congratulations to the athletes. Their podium finishes, raising the national flag and bringing Pakistan’s anthem to life in a gathering of over 539 competitors from 35 countries, stand as a powerful symbol of resilience, talent, and national pride.
