Nilufa Yasmin Neela is the player of the winning team of ‘Women’s Saf Championship-2024’. This female player grew up in poverty, neglect and extreme depression. Brightening the face of Bangladesh in South Asia, Nilufa has now become the pride of the people of Kushtia. Nilufa’s name is being spoken by the people of Kushtia along with many of Kushtia’s successful sportsmen.
Nilufa came from a poor family in Kushtia. A rickshaw puller father left the family when he was a child. Mother keeps Nilufa. She was only two and a half years old and younger sister Surbhi Akhtar was one and a half months old. Mother Bachiran Akhtar saw darkness in her eyes with her two daughters. He took refuge in his father’s house in Kuthipara Chare of Thanapara area of Kushtia city. He also started a low-paid job at a diagnostic center in the city.
The mother wanted to teach the two girls education and make them like human beings. Nilufa was good at sports since childhood. He started showing success in various sports from his school days. Seeing the girl’s excellence in almost all kinds of sports including high jump, running, mother Bachiran Akhtar wished to make her daughter an athlete.
She continued to encourage and encourage her daughter. However, the traditional Bengali society was surrounded by superstitions. His family also had to hear many negative things. But Nilufa did not stop. Continue studies along with sports. After passing SSC from Chand Sultana School in Kushtia, Nilufa passed HSC from Amla Government College in Mirpur Upazila. Later, he was admitted to Jessore University of Science and Technology under player quota.
Nilufa also received a monetary award from the Prime Minister for showing success in football. With that money, he bought land and started construction of houses in Jugia Farmpara. Nilufa’s mother Bachiran Akhtar, who currently lives in Jugia area of Kushtia municipality, said, ‘Many people in the area did not know that my daughter is a footballer in the national team. Even in the city, many did not know. That Nilufa is everyone’s pride now. My daughter now plays sports for the country. What can be more proud of a mother than this.’
Bachiran Akhter also said, ‘There was scarcity in the family. I made people suffer from lack. If Nilufa can do better in any way, do it. won’t stop No matter how bad people say, I will leave after seeing the end. I want him to do better and increase the reputation of the country.’
Nilufa’s grandmother Rokeya Begum said, ‘All the people of Bangladesh including us are happy for Neela. The children of the area are having fun. At first many people put up a lot of obstacles. When I saw his interest in sports, I and his mother used to support him. Along with studies, he has been interested in sports since childhood. Neela has come so far, we want her to always play sports for the country. He is the wealth of our country. I want to pray to the countrymen.’
Abdur Rahim, secretary of Kushtia Palli Vidyut Samiti, a resident of Yugiya village, said, ‘Nilufa Yasmin Nila is a girl from our area. We are proud of him. Nilufa’s mother Bachiran Akhtar is raising their two sisters very hard. When Nila returns to the village, we will give a reception.’
Bangladesh won the ‘Women’s Saf Championship-2024’ tournament by defeating Nepal 2-1 in the final held at the Dasaratha Rangshala Stadium in Kathmandu last Wednesday (October 30). Nilufar was also a part of that group.
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Interview between Time.news editor and Sports Expert
Editor (E): Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a fantastic opportunity to discuss the inspiring story of Nilufa Yasmin Neela, the star player from the winning team of the ‘Women’s Saf Championship-2024.’ Joining me is [Expert’s Name], a sports analyst and advocate for women’s sports development. Thank you for being here!
Expert (X): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about Nilufa’s remarkable journey and what it means for women’s sports in South Asia.
E: Let’s start with the basics. Nilufa’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Coming from a background of poverty and hardship, how significant is her achievement for young girls in Bangladesh and the broader region?
X: Nilufa’s story is incredibly impactful. It highlights resilience and determination, serving as a beacon of hope for young girls facing similar challenges. Her success not only encourages them to pursue sports but also sends a powerful message that one’s background does not define their future. It’s about breaking barriers and challenging societal norms.
E: Absolutely. Her mother, Bachiran Akhtar, played a pivotal role in Nilufa’s life, encouraging her to pursue sports despite societal pressures. What does this relationship illustrate about the importance of support systems in individual success?
X: It underscores the critical role of family support, especially in societies where traditional beliefs can stifle ambition. Bachiran’s unwavering support enabled Nilufa to dream big and pursue her passion for sports. This emphasizes the need for stronger support networks—families, communities, and institutions that encourage young girls to participate in sports.
E: You mentioned societal norms. What were some of the challenges that Nilufa faced as she attempted to carve a path in a male-dominated sport?
X: Nilufa confronted numerous challenges, including societal skepticism and gender stereotypes. In many cultures, sports for women are undervalued, and girls are often discouraged from pursuing athletic careers. Despite these obstacles, Nilufa’s perseverance is commendable. Her success can inspire further changes in perception—it’s vital for female athletes to be visibly celebrated and supported.
E: With Nilufa now representing her country and gaining recognition, what does her victory mean for the future of women’s sports in Bangladesh, particularly football?
X: Her victory is monumental! It puts women’s football on the map in Bangladesh and can stimulate interest and investment in women’s sports. When young girls see a role model like Nilufa succeeding, they’re more likely to participate in sports themselves. This moment can catalyze initiatives for improved training facilities, sponsorship opportunities, and greater media coverage for women athletes.
E: Nilufa also received recognition from the Prime Minister, which seems to have made a significant impact. How important is government support in promoting women’s sports?
X: Government support is crucial for the growth of any sport. Recognition from the Prime Minister not only affirms Nilufa’s talent but also provides her with funding and opportunities to further her career. It can pave the way for policies that promote gender equality in sports, including scholarships, training programs, and financial support for female athletes.
E: Now that Nilufa has achieved recognition, what should be the next steps for her in her career? How does she leverage this success?
X: Nilufa should continue to build on her success by engaging with the community and becoming an advocate for young female athletes. She can use her platform to raise awareness about women’s sports, mentor aspiring athletes, and collaborate with sports organizations to create more opportunities. Additionally, pursuing further professional development in sports can help her transition into leadership roles within sports administration or coaching.
E: This conversation has been truly enlightening. Nilufa Yasmin Neela’s story indeed resonates beyond just sports; it’s about empowerment and hope. Thank you, [Expert’s Name], for sharing your insights!
X: Thank you for highlighting such an important topic! Nilufa’s journey is a reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible.
E: And to our viewers, let’s continue to support and celebrate our athletes. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Time.news!