From Devadurga to player of the match: Shahista Aarti’s journey in blind sports

Raichur: Shahista Begum Aarti from Jalahalli in Devadurga taluk, Raichur district, is proving that disability is not a barrier when determination leads the way. The visually impaired athlete has become a role model for young women by excelling at the national level in both blind cricket and blind football.

Currently pursuing her BA at Mount Carmel College in Bengaluru, Shahista has been interested in sport since childhood. Visual impairment and limited opportunities in rural areas were obstacles, but her drive to achieve kept her going.

Her breakthrough came at a selection camp for the 2022 blind women’s cricket team. Worried about her future, she attended and worked tirelessly to earn a spot among the top 14 players. Through continuous practice, she secured a place in the final 11 of the Karnataka team in 2024 — a major milestone in her sporting career.

As a B2 category player, identifying the ball, catching and reacting quickly was a challenge. She turned that weakness into strength through rigorous training, effecting key run-outs and delivering decisive performances. She has represented Karnataka three times at the national level and has won Player of the Match awards on several occasions.

In blind football, Shahista made her debut in 2022 and scored on her first outing, winning the ‘Emerging Player’ award. She was appointed captain of the Indian blind football team for the series against Japan in August 2022, but was disqualified due to vision classification. Undeterred, she returned in 2024 under the All India Blind Football Association, scoring 11 goals and winning the ‘Golden Boot’. She repeated the feat in 2025 with seven goals, also taking home ‘Best Player’ and ‘Top Scorer’ awards.

Shahista says permanent coaches, better sports facilities, and financial assistance from the state government can help more athletes like her succeed at national and international levels.