Pushparaj Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Mar 28: Body-building has always been a male-dominated sport in India. Building muscles and body transformation has been meant for men, but from the past few years, women are also actively involved in fitness field.
Breaking stereotypes, a 23-year-old hijab wearing woman from north Kerala has proved that growing muscle for women is not difficult.
Majiziya Bhanu is a professional power-lifter and bodybuilder from Orkatteri, Kerala. She began power-lifting training in the year 2016. She bagged a silver medal in the Asian Power-lifting Championship 2017 held in Indonesia and also a gold medal in the Woman's Fitness Physique 2018 held at Darbar hall stadium, Kochi.
She has been selected as the strongest woman of Kerala thrice by Kerala State Power-lifting Association.
She completed her primary education at Islamic Academy English Higher Secondary School, Vatakara and did her secondary education from KKMGHSS, Orkatteri. She is currently pursuing her BDS at Mahe Institute of Dental Sciences And Hospital.
Majiziya Bhanu spoke to Daijiworld and shared her experience.
Excerpts:
Q: Who inspired you to take up the sport?
It was actually my husband Nour Ahmad Kohan Alizaey, who is inspired and encouraged me to participate in Kerala Championship 2018.
Even though I am active and strong in power-lifting, I never ever thought about bodybuilding. It was my husband who encouraged me and gave me the strength miles away from Afghanistan.
Q: How did you prepare yourself for bodybuilding? How has your family helped you to achieve your goal?
It was very hard in the beginning when I started going to gym. People including my parents advised me against going to gym. I was tired of explaining. In reality, I was really blessed, because Allah helped me in that tough situation.
I had no idea about bodybuilding and had several misconceptions.
My husband encouraged me to participate in a bodybuilding event. He gave me all the ideas, instructions and the strength that I was looking extremely different and special in the competition.
Q: How did you feel on the stage wearing a hijab?
Hijab is not just a piece of cloth; it is my strength and dignity. I follow Islam and my identity is my hijab. I was feeling very special and unique when I was on the stage. I want to let the world know that hijab is never an obstacle for women with unstoppable passion.
Q: What role has your family played in your career?
I am from a village called Orkatteri which is far away from city and as well as modern lifestyle. I was so eager and enthusiastic to learn and practice sports when I was a little kid. My parents Abdul and Rasiya Majeed, supported me and they did everything to help me achieve my dreams. They enquired about many games, but unfortunately none of them were available in our village and nearby town. But I never gave up; I did everything that I could do within my limits.
If my situation was favorable as right now, I would have been known by the whole world at present. But sadly, there is nobody to pay attention, support and help me out to move forward and be part of international competitions.
I hope that I would be able to take part in an international competition some day.
Q: Any suggestions to upcoming female bodybuilding enthusiasts or especially women?
All I did was just an attempt. Now it is clear how the world is looking at me. Nobody and nothing can stop us from anything if are determined.
Being a woman or being a Muslim does not matter. I want to let the world know that hijab is not a limiting factor or an excuse. Every religion and culture is valuable and respectful. No games will disrespect religion, if we are on the right way.
I suggest all Indian women and all around the world, articulate your dreams, listen to your instinct, be gusty and take risks, nurture yourself, go with the flow, face your inner critic, do not be afraid, work hard and stay focused and if do not succeed in your first attempt, try again, put yourself out there and never stop.
Challenges can be met if we work hard. If we care about society, we will all end up as house wives.
All women have the same rights as men. I stand for my own rights; I fight for my own dreams. My parents supported me and helped me to make my dream come true. I am right now in the spot where I always wanted to be.
Q: What is your next immediate goal?
My future plan is to participate in the World Championships. I want to be a doctor to help people. I want to set up a sports academy for our children to help them realise their dreams. I want to make my husband, parents and my country proud.
I will try my best to come forward and stand proudly on top of the world without changing my identity and personality.