Pakistani ‘Dangal’ girls making their father proud

Much like India’s Phogat Sisters-inspired Dangal movie, Masood Sisters in Pakistan are making their father proud by playing multi-sports, including kabaddi.

Laiba and Hamda are two very talented and emerging sportswomen who have participated in badminton and karate tournaments across the country and also worldwide. Elder sister Laiba Masood, who is currently enrolled in the last year of O-levels, dreams of making the country proud by pursuing her passion for sports.

“She (Laiba) is very sporty and supportive. We support each other when we participate in events,” says Hamda Masood who takes inspiration from her elder sister.

And then there’s their father Rai Masood Kharal who prefers his daughters over the son.

“He is always motivating me and showing me the positive aspects of every game. I have achieved everything with the help of my family, my father,” Laiba Masood believes.

Masood Kharal endorses the idea that women should be encouraged to participate in outdoor sports so that they can compete in various competitions and make their families proud.

Masood Sisters were among the new breed of young athletes who took part in one of the first large-scale women kabaddi matches played in Lahore — organised by Super Kabaddi League.

Strawberry Dreams and Strawberry Ambition had played an exhibition match at the Super Kabaddi League where the latter won the match 33-31 after a close fight.

Pakistan women’s national team made its debut in 2013. The team has had a limited international experience but competed in South Asian Games. However, no large-scale tournaments have been arranged for women in kabaddi yet.