In a story that highlights both extraordinary determination and heartbreaking reality, 17-year-old Janmoni Konwar from Assam has won a gold medal at the National Karate Championship, only to return home and find her family still living under a tarpaulin after devastating floods destroyed their house.

Janmoni, a resident of Bhogdoiporia Gaon in Jorhat district, secured the gold medal in the Ashihara Karate category at the National Championship held at Talkatora Indoor Stadium in New Delhi from August 7 to 9. Her remarkable victory came despite overwhelming personal and financial hardships.

The Konwar family lost their home and fishery after severe floods struck the region in July when a breached embankment inundated their village. Their fish ponds, ducks, poultry and other sources of livelihood were washed away, forcing the family to take shelter under a temporary tarpaulin tent.

Before the floods, the family had planned to sell fish to fund Janmoni's trip to Delhi. However, the disaster wiped out their savings. In previous years, they had even sold two buffaloes to support her karate career.

As the situation worsened, assistance came from Physics Wallah founder Alakh Pandey, who sponsored Janmoni's travel, accommodation and return journey.

He also provided ₹3 lakh to help her flood-affected family rebuild their lives. Additionally, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita extended financial support of ₹10,000.

Janmoni has been practising karate since the age of five. Despite limited facilities and the recent disaster, she continued training with unwavering determination.

Her perseverance paid off with a national gold medal, making her an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.

Although she has brought pride to Assam and the nation, Janmoni's family continues to live in temporary shelter as they struggle to recover from the floods. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind many sporting triumphs lie immense sacrifices and resilience.