Courting Love...
Olympic shuttler Saina Nehwal can't stop gushing about Kashmir, as she takes us on a guided tour across the picturesque vistas of the region.
Words Shikha Duggal
The unmistakable thwack of a shuttlecock meeting racquet defined Saina Nehwal’s life for decades. Now, as she pivots gracefully from being an Olympic medal-winning sportsperson to an investor, her story reveals a champion who found balance by expanding her horizons beyond the confines of the badminton court.
Only the second Indian after Prakash Padukone to claim the coveted World No. 1 ranking (in 2015), Nehwal’s trajectory wasn’t an easy smash. Her path was marked by resilience through repeated disappointments, particularly at the world championships where quarterfinal exits became a frustrating refrain.
“Those quarterfinal defeats before finally claiming bronze in London Olympics (in 2012) were my defining moments,” Nehwal reflects with the wisdom of an athlete who understands that failure often precedes triumph. The medal cabinet that houses her Olympic bronze and three Commonwealth Games golds (two individual and one team event) tells only part of her remarkable journey.
For years, badminton consumed her entirely. “My entire universe was badminton. Every choice I made revolved around performance, competition, and training,” she acknowledges. But as the shuttler from Haryana matured, so did her perspective.
“I gradually understood that being an athlete is a significant aspect of who I am, but it doesn’t define my entire existence,” Nehwal says with the quiet confidence of someone who has re-discovered herself.
This self-discovery led her to travel, a welcome diversion that became her sanctuary. “I focus on things that bring me joy outside sports to make room for Saina, the person,” she explains, adding, “Family grounds me, especially time with my spouse (badminton champion Parupalli Kashyap) and my dog, Chopsy. Travel offers new perspectives and relief from the constant demands of competition.”
briefing
Indian Athlete
Kashmir Calling
Among her adventures, Kashmir emerged as a soul-stirring favourite. “I explored Kashmir during the Shri Amarnathji Yatra,” she recalls. “Though I’d heard about its beauty, nothing could prepare me for the majestic mountains and verdant landscapes. Srinagar was beautiful, but Gulmarg and Sonamarg cast an enchanting spell,” she says.
Hidden Gem
“While exploring Srinagar’s landmarks – Dal Lake, Zero Bridge, and Nishat Garden – and enjoying Gulmarg’s gondola ride, I discovered an unexpected treasure. The remote paradise of Gurez Valley stole my heart. It’s surreal with dancing brooks and lush meadows, almost like stepping into an artist’s fantasy,” Nehwal shares.
The Warmth
“What truly defines Kashmir is the warmth of its people, extending well beyond those snow-crowned peaks and peaceful valleys,” Nehwal says. She adds, “Sipping kahwa beside Dal Lake remains etched in my memory; the water punctuated by distant echoes of passing shikaras. I realised Kashmir isn’t just about scenic beauty but the spirit of its people.”
“I am in love with Kashmiri saag (leafy vegetable dish),” the athlete shares, adding, “Having this saag with freshly baked naan, amid breathtaking scenery, created an indelible memory. The aromatic spices offered a rich, unforgettable taste of Kashmir itself, perfectly concluded with saffron-infused, almond-laden kahwa.”
A Love Affair
Drawing Parallels
“The region possesses a rhythm balancing tranquility and resilience, much like badminton where every shot demands precision and adaptability. Majestic mountains stand like formidable opponents, while the gentle Dal Lake mirrors the finesse of a perfectly executed drop shot,” she adds.
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