‘Jalpari’ Meenakshi Pahuja creates history on the waves of the sea in Mumbai

Khel Today Bureau

Mumbai: Famous international open-water swimmer ‘Jalpari’ Meenakshi Pahuja created history by swimming 17 kilometers on the chest of the sea in the open sea from Revas Jetty in Mumbai to the Gateway of India here on Friday. This 17- kilometer swim, done with the aim of spreading awareness about water pollution, is a symbol of teamwork, resilience and Ms. Pahuja’s enduring commitment to excellence.

In this 17-kilometer swim, Meenakshi had to face many challenges like temperature, wind, jellyfish and water snakes. Her swim will inspire the athletes of the country to swim in open water.

Meenakshi gives full credit for this journey to her late father Shri V.K. Meenakshi was supported in this endeavour by an efficient escort team comprising Mr. Abhinav Kant Chaturvedi, Mr. Kirish Gandhi and Mr. Faisal Siddiqui who not only encouraged Meenakshi but also ensured her safety.

Respect for legacy

As a three-time national champion and international open-water swimmer, Ms. Pahuja’s achievements are based on the values ​​instilled in her by her father. Reflecting on his influence, she says:

“My father’s legacy is the foundation of all my achievements. His guidance taught me the true meaning of perseverance and commitment.”

Advocate for environmental awareness

A strong advocate of environmental conservation, Ms. Pahuja has taken up the cause of creating awareness about the growing issue of water pollution in the country through this swim. She appealed to the young generation of the country to not miss out on doing their part in saving water. Do not pollute the seas and rivers. She stressed, “Water is a powerful element of nature that sustains life. Let us pledge not to pollute it and take steps to save our natural resources for future generations.”

About Ms. Meenakshi Pahuja

Born on September 5, 1977, Ms. Pahuja is a respected name in Indian swimming, having participated in competitive pool events to challenging open water marathons. On March 8, 2019, she was awarded the country’s prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar by the then President Shri Ram Nath Kovind. Meenakshi Pahuja has some more records to her name which need to be mentioned –

– She has been included in the Limca Book of Records thrice (2013, 2016, 2018) for her exceptional achievements. She also served as a consultant for the sports section of the Limca Book of Records.

– Winning a medal at the 1996 Asia Pacific Age Group Swimming Championships in Busan, South Korea.

– Becoming the first Indian to complete prestigious swims like Key West (Florida), Lake Zurich (Switzerland) and Tex Robertson Highland Lakes Challenge (Texas).

– Successfully swimming the Apolima Strait (Samoa) in 11 hours and 30 minutes (2018) and Lake Constance (Germany) in 11.6 km (2018).

– Achieving podium finishes at the Labuan Sea Cross (Malaysia) in 2012 and the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim (New York) in 2014.

Ms. Pahuja is also the author of the 38th edition of V.K. Pahuja Swimming Statistics Bulletin (2018) and has received awards like Special Award by Delhi Sports Journalists Association for Open-Water Swimming Achievements (2019).

Apart from her achievements in swimming, she is a life member of the Physical Education Foundation of India, a director of the Indian Association of Sports for All, and a member of the advisory board of the International Health and Fitness Association. Apart from swimming, Ms. Pahuja is an accomplished academician and researcher. She presented a paper on Para Sports at the International Conference on Olympic and Indian Values ​​and another paper on Swimming for Lifestyle Management at the International Conference on Sports for All. The latter was published in the International Journal of Fitness, Health, Physical Education and Iron Games. She serves as an Associate Professor at Lady Shri Ram College for Women (University of Delhi), where she inspires countless girl students. She also actively supports social causes including menstrual health awareness, disability rights, and environmental conservation. Through her YouTube channel, Sacchi Baat, Ms. Pahuja addresses impactful social issues, aiming to inspire positive change.