New Delhi: Former Karate athlete Mukesh Mishra has shed light on the lack of media coverage for state Bihar's Karate champions, despite winning medals for the state and the nation in various Karate competitions.
Mukesh Mishra, born in Darbhanga, works as a Karate coach (Bihar State Team). He promotes the art of self-defence and the tremendous art of karate sport among the youth of the Mithila region and reminisces about his early days as a Karate athlete representing Bihar.
He recalls the immense pride he felt when he won medals for his state but also the disappointment of not receiving any media coverage for his achievements. "Back then, Karate was not as popular as it is now, and the lack of media coverage only added to the struggle of promoting the sport in our state," says Mishra.
The former athlete believes that media coverage plays a crucial role in promoting and encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams. He emphasizes, "When athletes from other states were being celebrated and recognized by the media, it was disheartening to see our state's champions being overlooked."
This lack of recognition is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. He hopes that by bringing attention to this issue, the media will start acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of Bihar's Karate champions. Mishra also urges the government and sports authorities to take notice of this issue and provide more support and recognition to Karate athletes in the state.
Recently concluded 18th All India Independence Cup Karate Championship 2024 at Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, where Mishra's pupils won two gold medals for Bihar, "Karate is a sport that requires immense dedication and hard work, and our athletes deserve to be recognized for their efforts," says Mishra.
The dedication and hard work of these athletes is truly inspiring. He hopes that with the growing popularity of Karate in India, the media will start giving more coverage to state-level competitions and athletes.