In a remarkable achievement, Disha Pandith, a 20-year-old Sqay martial artist from Koil village in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, has brought immense pride to the Union Territory and the nation by winning gold and silver medals at the International Sqay Cup 2025 held in Podoslik, Moscow, Russia.
Representing India at the prestigious event, which saw participation from 19 countries, Disha displayed outstanding skill, determination, and resilience. She clinched gold in LOBA (Fight) and silver in the Autistic category, playing a key role in India’s overall second-place finish in the medal tally. Host nation Russia claimed the championship, while Uzbekistan secured third place.
Disha, daughter of Praduman Krishan Pandith and Jyoti, is currently pursuing an integrated degree in Zoology. Her latest victory adds to an already impressive record—this being her sixth international medal, including a previous gold at the Sqay World Cup.
Speaking to Excelsior, Disha shared her pride in the achievement and credited her success to the unwavering support of her coach, Grandmaster Nazir Ahmad Mir, and her family. “It’s their guidance and encouragement that help me balance both sports and studies,” she said.
Beyond her personal achievements, Disha is passionate about training young Sqay practitioners in Jammu and Kashmir. She aims to promote self-defense among women, empowering them to become strong, confident, and resilient. Officials from the Indian Sqay Federation lauded her feat, calling it a proud moment for the country and a boost for martial arts in the Union Territory.
