The Unexpected Reward for an Olympic Gold Medalist
Arshad Nadeem achieved widespread acclaim at the Paris Olympics due to his exceptional performance, resulting in Pakistan’s inaugural individual gold medal. Nadeem, who stands at an impressive height of 6 feet 4 inches, surpassed the Olympic record for the longest javelin throw by achieving a distance of 92.97 meters or 305.02 feet.
Originating from a rural community in Punjab province, Pakistan, Nadeem was the third eldest among eight siblings and showcased early athletic promise, initially favouring cricket. It was his father, a mason, who proposed that he explore javelin throwing. Despite encountering obstacles and a lack of government backing for his training, Nadeem’s triumph prompted a surge of financial rewards and gifts.
Following his gold medal win, Nadeem received a considerable sum of $50,000 from the Olympic Association, close to $500,000 from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and $350,000 from Punjab’s Chief Minister Mariam Nawaz. Additional presents included two cars, lifetime free fuel, an apartment, and even a gold crown. However, an unforeseen gift in the form of a buffalo came from his father-in-law.
The lighthearted conversation about the buffalo on a morning television program shed light on the cultural significance of the animal in Punjab. In rural communities, the buffalo is viewed as a highly prized and honorable gift, analogous to the symbolism of camels in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the buffalo is particularly esteemed for its milk, which holds great importance in Pakistan.
Buffalo milk, often referred to as the “black gold” of Pakistan, constitutes 72% of the nation’s milk supply. Its higher fat and protein content make it a dietary staple in Pakistan, particularly in the production of ghee, a form of clarified butter. Notably, a female buffalo can be regarded as a lucrative asset due to its capacity to consistently produce milk throughout its average lifespan of 20 years.
Dr. Burhan-e-Azam, a veterinarian specializing in buffalo, underscored the animal’s significance in Punjab, also known as the “poor man’s bank” due to its monetary value. In addition to offering a consistent milk supply, the buffalo holds cultural importance, with connections to traditional dowries and communal rituals in the region.
Although the receipt of a buffalo may appear unconventional, it holds personal significance for Nadeem, as buffalo milk and ghee were fundamental components of his training diet. The gift of a buffalo guarantees that the Olympic champion can continue to access fresh milk as he prepares for future competitions.
The addition of a buffalo to Nadeem’s accolades introduces a unique and captivating aspect to his already extraordinary narrative, further accentuating the rich cultural traditions and values of his homeland.
Written by Benazir Samad
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