He walked his way daily to about four km from his Redyanaik Tanda in Mahabubnagar district to a nearby bus stand and then traversed a distance of 90 km to develop his interest in martial arts about eight years ago. Now, Jarpulavath Babulal can look back with a sense of pride — all his hard work, grit and determination have helped him to represent India in the international taekwondo meets.
“Those days I never even dreamt of playing in the Nationals. My first objective was to master the basics. Now, that I’m going to represent India in the Chuncheon Open international meet in Seoul from July 4 to 9, it is a dream come true,” says the 25-year-old Babulal, who also happens to be a coach at Osmania University and also trains free of cost at Kothapeta orphanage in the city.
This is yet another success story of how one from a rustic background can transgress the human limits. In Babulal’s case, he had to face the personal tragedy of even losing his father. Coming from a family of three brothers and a sister and with their mother Suseela, an agricultural labourer, Babulal, who has won four international medals already, is now the beacon of hope for his family.
“I will not talk big about my prospects. But, I will try my best to win a medal in Seoul. It is not going to be easy,” says the martial arts expert who interestingly is also pursuing Journalism course in Osmania University. “I am dreaming of the day when I can write about the success stories of other outstanding young talents who come from a similar background,” he says with a big smile.
At present he is chasing the ultimate dream of any sportsperson. “To represent India in the 2016 Olympics. Age should not be a barrier. I am determined to go as long as possible to realise this one big goal,” says a determined Babulal.
