Pune’s 12-year-old Yash Khandale, son of a flower-seller, won gold in an international karate championship in Malaysia after his mother sold her mangalsutra to fund his trip.
Pune | June 12, 2025: If determination is strong and hard work is relentless, no obstacle is too big — 12-year-old Yash Hanumant Khandale from Pune has proved just that. Despite coming from an economically challenged family, Yash has made the country proud by winning a gold medal in an international karate championship held in Malaysia.
Yash lives in Durga Mata Vasahati, Pune, with his father, who has been selling flowers door to door for nearly four decades, and his mother, who takes on various jobs for a living. When Yash was selected to compete internationally, the family didn’t have the funds for the trip. Without hesitation, Yash’s mother sold her mangalsutra to ensure her son wouldn’t miss the opportunity.
And her sacrifice paid off. Yash defeated his Chinese opponent to clinch the gold medal in a competition where participants from 32 countries competed. This global victory didn’t come overnight. Yash has been practicing karate consistently for six years and has participated in several local and national competitions before reaching this international milestone.
“My mother sold her mangalsutra for me. That gave me even more strength. I had to win,” Yash said with a smile, adding that this is just the beginning of his journey. He now dreams of competing at the Asian and Olympic levels.
Yash’s coaches have praised his discipline and skill. His father, Hanumant Khandale, shared that their only goal was to ensure their son didn’t have to compromise on his dreams. The family’s sacrifice and Yash’s determination are inspiring others, showing that with belief, effort, and support, even the most modest background can rise to global recognition.
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