The Silent Fighter: How Naaz Gull Rose from Balochistan to Master Shotokan Karate

By: Ahmed Jahangeer Khan

Shotokan—a revered branch of Japanese Karate founded in 1936—translates literally to the “House of Shoto” or “Pine Waves.” Today, it stands as one of the most respected and widely practiced martial arts disciplines in the world. While global icons have long dominated the arena, Pakistan has carved out its own place on the international stage, championed by relentless athletes who fight against all odds.

At the forefront of this movement is Miss Naaz Gull, a powerhouse martial artist from the Hazara community of Balochistan, whose story is one of unwavering courage, secret ambition, and triumphant national pride.

A Secret Passion: Stepping onto the Tatami

For Naaz Gull, the obsession with martial arts was instant. As a young girl growing up in Quetta while pursuing her intermediate studies (F.Sc.), the sight of a Karate practitioner in a pristine white gi (uniform) stirred something deep within her. It wasn’t just a sport; it was a calling.

However, lacking immediate support and facing cultural skepticism, her path was anything but smooth. Refusing to let her dreams wither, Naaz took a courageous leap: in 2010, she secretly enrolled in a local karate club under the mentorship of Sensei Ghulam Ali. Day after day, she honed her technique in silence, turning doubt into raw power.

Dominating the National Arena

Naaz Gull’s dedication quickly yielded extraordinary results. By 2015, her exceptional skill caught the attention of WAPDA, one of Pakistan’s premier sports bodies, which inducted her into their ranks.

Her national debut in Islamabad set the tone for a career defined by dominance, bringing home her first bronze and silver medals. Across the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Women’s National Games, Naaz transformed into an unstoppable force in Pakistani martial arts, amassing a staggering record:

• 40+ Gold Medals
• 5 Silver Medals
• 8 Bronze Medals

Flying the Green and White on the World Stage

Naaz Gull’s impact extends far beyond domestic rings. As a key representative of Pakistan, she has carried the national flag into fierce international competitions:

• 2016: International Championships in Dubai (UAE) and India
• 2017: South Asian Games in Sri Lanka and international matches in Azerbaijan

Her presence in international arenas proved that talent from Balochistan can stand toe-to-toe with the world’s best martial artists.

Beyond the Ring: The Educator and Mentor

What makes Naaz Gull truly extraordinary is her multi-faceted commitment to her society. Parallel to her demanding training schedule, she served her community as a devoted schoolteacher from 2010 to 2017, balancing the discipline of the dojo with the patience of the classroom to empower the next generation.

Outside of karate, she remains an avid cyclist and researcher, constantly seeking ways to broaden her knowledge and refine her physical endurance.

A Vision for the Future

Anchored by the guidance of her ideal personality, Sensei Ghulam Ali, Naaz Gull’s journey is far from over. Her vision remains focused on extreme training, breaking more records, and hoisting Pakistan’s flag on international podiums.

To the youth of Pakistan, her message is both simple and vital:

“Always prioritize your physical and mental well-being. If you maintain good health, a fulfilling and successful life will naturally follow.”