By Ramesh Raja
Tulsi Meghwar, from the small village of Sadhu Paro Kotri by the Indus River, is Pakistan’s first female Hindu softball and baseball champion. Her journey has been one of determination and courage. Growing up in a conservative society, where girls were discouraged from sports, Tulsi pursued her dreams despite the challenges. “I was confident and ambitious,” she says, urging other girls to dream big.
In 2016, while still in school, Tulsi joined a softball trial, worried her family might not approve. Her father, Harji Lal, a journalist, supported her. “My parents deserve all the credit for my success,” Tulsi says. Her hard work paid off when she was selected for the provincial squad at the National Women’s Softball Championship. Since then, she has won many medals and awards.
Though criticized by her community for playing sports, Tulsi never gave up. She believes that stepping onto the field frees a woman from social obstacles. Her success has inspired other girls. “If I can do it, so can they,” says her coach, Aisha Iram.
Tulsi’s father recalls the criticism he faced for sending her to school, as educating girls was frowned upon. But her achievements have shown that girls can succeed when given the opportunity.
Tulsi believes sports in Pakistan, especially for women, need more attention and support. Despite the challenges, she dreams of representing Pakistan internationally. “It’s only the beginning for me,” she says, staying hopeful.
Her achievements have not only challenged stereotypes about girls in sports but also shown that girls can break barriers. “It’s not just about playing; it’s about making a statement,” she says. Tulsi hopes to prove that a girl from a marginalized community can rise above limitations.
Tulsi’s story is a beacon of hope, especially for girls from conservative backgrounds. “I am proud to be the first girl from my Hindu family to make a name in sports,” she says. She is paving the way for others, showing that with determination and support, anything is possible.
Starting her sports journey in 2016 at a school-based baseball camp, Tulsi had never heard of baseball or softball but wanted to try something new. Little did she know, this decision would make her a national champion in both sports. Despite many obstacles, she faced, including criticism from her community, Tulsi persevered. “When I started practicing for the national games, people questioned why a girl from my community would play sports. They thought it was only for boys,” she recalls. But over time, her critics became her supporters.
Tulsi’s first big achievement came when she was selected for the national baseball games. Since then, she has won many medals, including gold and bronze at national and regional tournaments. “Winning my first medal was a moment of immense pride for me and my family,” she says.
As the first batter for her team, a position earned through her exceptional performance, Tulsi is now a symbol of hope for girls in her community, where traditional gender roles are often enforced. “I was always told that if you work hard, respect and recognition will follow,” she reflects.
Though she faces challenges, including a lack of dedicated practice fields for girls, Tulsi practices with what she has and uses online videos to improve. “The field is not ideal, but I’ve learned to practice with what I have,” she says.
Tulsi’s story challenges the norms of a conservative society, proving that women can achieve great things despite the odds. “People didn’t believe a girl from my community could achieve so much. But I believe in myself, and I want other girls to believe in themselves too,” she says.
With the unwavering support of her parents, especially her father, Tulsi has shown that with belief and perseverance, anything is possible. “My father has always believed in me,” she says, crediting him for her success.
Tulsi’s journey is not just about sports; it’s about overcoming obstacles and breaking barriers. She continues to work toward her dream of representing Pakistan internationally, aiming to show the world that women from her community can compete at the highest level.
Tulsi’s story is an inspiration to women everywhere, encouraging them to break free from societal norms and pursue their dreams. “I hope my journey helps other girls realize they too can break the barriers that hold them back,” she concludes.
Tulsi Meghwar is a true trailblazer, and her perseverance, courage, and determination inspire us all. We wish her continued success in her journey and hope she achieves all her dreams on the global stage.