Khusbu darjada

Khelo India Youth Games: Continuing the legacy started by her elder sister Shahin, a four-time Khelo India medallist, Khusbu Darjada ensured that the 57kg gold remained with the family. She overcame stiff resistance from Maharashtra’s Shravani S. in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 Bihar final at the Gyan Bhavan.

In the run-up to Bihar 2025, Shahin had exuded confidence that her sister would go the distance. Khushbu looked in great rhythm en route to the final, where she was challenged by an equally aggressive Shravani. Khusbhu gained an early point, but Shravani swiftly took her down to restore parity. However, Khusbhu played the waiting game and pinned down her opponent for gold.

Hailing from Jambur village, more popularly known as the ‘Mini Africa’ of Gujarat, where some members of the African Siddi tribe had settled centuries ago, Khusbhu is one of the most promising judo athletes in the competition. There are a few more from the region, situated around 20km from the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, and have served as a home to the Siddi community, a tribe that traces its origin in Africa.