Rajkot, July 8 – In a proud moment for Gujarat, Kinjal Taviya from the small border village of Modhuka in Vinchhiya taluka, Rajkot district, secured a silver medal while representing the state in the 54th Senior Women’s National Handball Championship. The prestigious tournament was recently held in Bhuj, featuring teams from 27 states across the country.
With a population of just 4,000, Modhuka is home to farmer Mansukhbhai Taviya and Prabhaben, parents of five daughters and one son. Remarkably, three of their children — two daughters and one son — have earned medals at the national level in various sports, making their family a beacon of inspiration in the region.
Kinjal, who scored 79 percent in her Class 12 commerce exams, has been passionate about sports since childhood. She received professional training under coach Tejsinh Patel at Brahmanandji Champarada Vidya Mandir near Junagadh. Patel shared that Kinjal had shown unwavering dedication to sports since the sixth grade, and her hard work and commitment have now brought her national recognition.
Despite limited means, Mansukhbhai, who studied only up to fifth grade, continues to toil on his 10-bigha farm to ensure his children receive proper education and opportunities. One of his daughters has completed her B.Ed., while two others have cleared the entrance for the same. The youngest son, currently in Class 11, is also a national-level medalist in handball.
This achievement highlights how talent from rural areas can flourish nationally when given the right support and guidance. Local institutions like Molila Seemshala have played a vital role in nurturing such potential. The Taviya family's success has not only brought pride to their village but has also placed Modhuka firmly on the national sports map, serving as a powerful example of determination and perseverance for others in similar communities.
