Sheikh Najm
| Sheikh Najm | |
|---|---|
 A8dd6889-79b4-4cf5-8be8-673974d0e913.jpeg | |
| Born | 2007-05-16 |
| 🏳️ Nationality | Indian |
| 💼 Occupation | Athlete |
| https://www.facebook.com/share/16EHv1v1ZA/?mibextid=wwXIfr | |
| https://www.instagram.com/sheikhnajm_bilal?igsh=M2MzdXhhOXBhNWF6 | |
Najm Sheikh is an Indian multi-sport athlete and martial artist known for her exceptional achievements across various disciplines including sqay martial arts, swimming, badminton, kudo, squash, softball, and kalaripayattu. Recognized as one of the youngest and most versatile athletes from Jammu and Kashmir, Sheikh has earned numerous state, national, and international honors, securing over 75 medals by the age of 16.
Early life and education
Najm Sheikh began his athletic journey at the age of five, competing at the district level. His early exposure to sports started with swimming, where he excelled as a state-level competitor. He attended Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School, where his talent and leadership skills flourished. During his years there, Sheikh was appointed as the Sports Captain and was later named the Best Athlete of 2024.
Athletic career
Sheikh’s sporting career is marked by a wide range of achievements across multiple disciplines. His first major milestone came when he won a gold medal in self-defense at a district championship held at Islamia College, a moment he often recalls as the spark that ignited his passion for sports.
Over the years, Najm Sheikh has competed in 22 district championships, earning 27 gold medals, and participated in over 20 state-level championships, where he secured 26 gold medals. His success extended to the national level as well, where he achieved 14 gold and silver medals across various events.
Sheikh represented India on the international stage, winning five international gold medals in Sqay Martial Arts. His outstanding record led to his inclusion in the International Book of Records twice—once for achieving 60 medals by the age of 16, and again for organizing a Multi-Sport and Art Event with the highest number of participants.
Refereeing and leadership
At just 12 years old, Najm Sheikh became the youngest referee in Sqay Martial Arts, a position he held for three years. His early involvement in refereeing deepened his understanding of the sport and strengthened his commitment to fair play and leadership.
Awards and recognition
Throughout his journey, Sheikh has received multiple state, national, and international honors. He was recognized with an international award in Amritsar, followed by another the next year. He also received recognition from the Indian Talented Awards in Mumbai, Maharashtra, for his contributions to sports and youth development.
In 2025, Sheikh achieved another milestone by winning double gold medals at the South Asian Championship held in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Personal goals
With nearly 75 medals to his credit, Najm Sheikh continues to aim higher, setting a personal goal of reaching 100 medals in the near future. He attributes his success to the unwavering support of his parents, coaches, and mentors, who have been instrumental in shaping his athletic career.
Legacy
Najm Sheikh’s journey from a young district-level athlete to an internationally recognized sports achiever serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes. His dedication, versatility, and record-setting achievements highlight the potential of Kashmir’s youth in global sports.
References
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External links
- Official Instagram profile (if available)
- International Book of Records profile (if applicable)
