Roohi Sultana runs with young at 55

Srinagar, Mar 30: At 55, when most people begin to slow down, Roohi Sultana is picking up pace, literally. A teacher from Srinagar, she runs shoulder to shoulder with youngsters, not to compete but to keep alive a passion that has redefined her life. In an age of sedentary habits, her story is a powerful reminder, fitness doesn’t come with an expiry date.

There is little to distinguish her until you learn that she is 55, a school teacher, and a late entrant into the world of fitness.

Speaking to Greater Kashmir, she says her journey began only a few years ago, stating that around 2020, inspired by her brother, a doctor, she took her first steps towards running.

“I started slowly,” she says. “But once I realised how important health is, I stayed consistent.”

Consistency soon brought results. She says in 2023, she participated in a police-organised run and secured a position.

Sharing details about her athletic journey, she has participated in over 45 running events, including multiple marathons across the region.

Her recent participation in the Jammu Marathon stands out, not because she was the oldest participant, but because she ran with the same determination as runners decades younger. While the event drew attention for the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and a large number of youth participants, Roohi quietly carved her own space, proving that age is no barrier when passion leads the way.

For her, running is not about medals or recognition. It is about health, independence, and self-respect.

“If your health is good, everything feels good,” she says. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you become dependent on others.”

Balancing her responsibilities as a teacher with her fitness routine, Roohi credits her family for being her strongest support system. From her brother who first inspired her, to her husband, who is also an athlete and parents who encouraged her to continue, she says their belief in her made all the difference.

In a society often preoccupied with appearances, Roohi chose a different priority. “I never focused on how I look or what I wear,” she says. “My focus was always on staying healthy.”

Her message to the younger generation is direct and honest. She believes that increasing screen time and lack of physical activity have made many young people less resilient.

“They don’t even feel like walking,” she says. “Running is far away. But if you can’t run, at least start walking.”

She advocates small, consistent steps, morning walks, healthy eating, and mindful use of technology. “Use your phone for something positive,” she adds. “Don’t let it take away your life.”

At 55, Roohi Sultana is not chasing records, she is chasing a way of life. One that values movement over comfort, discipline over excuses, and health over everything else.

Her story is not just about running. It is about breaking a mindset.

Because sometimes, the biggest race is not against others, it is against the limits we set for ourselves.