Pakistani Olympian Arshad Nadeem made headlines at the Paris Olympics when he secured a gold medal and set a new world record for the longest javelin throw. Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches, Nadeem’s throw of 92.97 meters or 305.02 feet earned him the title of the first Pakistani to win an individual gold medal in the Olympics. This historic achievement not only brought him glory but also a slew of prizes, including a unique reward – a buffalo from his father-in-law.
Growing up in a rural community in Punjab, Pakistan, Nadeem was the third oldest of eight children. Initially drawn to cricket, he later switched to javelin throwing at the suggestion of his father, who worked as a mason. Despite lacking support from the Pakistani government in his training, Nadeem’s dedication and hard work paid off when he clinched the gold medal at the Olympics.
The gold rush that followed his victory was nothing short of extraordinary. Nadeem received $50,000 from the Olympic Association, around half a million dollars from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and $350,000 from Punjab’s Chief Minister Mariam Nawaz. In addition to cash prizes, he was also gifted with a Honda Civic bearing the number 92.97 as a tribute to his record-breaking throw, along with a lifetime supply of free fuel, an apartment, and even a gold crown.
However, the most unconventional reward came from his father-in-law – a buffalo. While some may have found this gift amusing, the buffalo holds deep cultural significance in Punjab. Rashad Bukhari, a writer and cultural commentator from Punjab, explains that in rural communities, a buffalo is considered a valuable and honorable gift, akin to camels in desert regions like Saudi Arabia.
The buffalo’s significance goes beyond its symbolic value; it’s all about the milk. In Pakistan, buffalo milk, often referred to as the “black gold,” accounts for 72% of the nation’s milk supply. With higher fat and protein content than cow’s milk, buffalo milk is ideal for making ghee, a staple in the Pakistani diet. For farmers in Punjab, a female buffalo is a valuable asset, often referred to as a “cash cow” for its milk-producing capabilities.
Dr. Burhan-e-Azam, a veterinarian specializing in buffalo research, explains that a female buffalo typically starts producing milk at three years old and continues to do so for the rest of its life. This consistent milk production makes buffalos a lucrative investment, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $3,600. It’s no wonder that Pakistanis consider buffalos as a “poor man’s bank,” given their ability to provide a steady source of income.
Traditionally, buffalos have played a significant role in Punjab’s culture and economy. They were once part of traditional dowries and were essential for livelihoods. Even today, when a family’s buffalo passes away, neighbors offer condolences, highlighting the animal’s importance in the community.
In modern times, having a buffalo remains a practical choice for many households in Punjab. It’s not uncommon for families to have a single buffalo, benefiting from government-provided vaccination services and medical care. While this may seem unusual to some, the buffalo’s value as a source of milk and income cannot be understated.
For Arshad Nadeem, the buffalo gifted by his father-in-law holds special significance. During his training, buffalo milk and homemade ghee were staples in his diet. With his father-in-law’s generous gift, the Olympic champion can continue to enjoy fresh milk as he prepares for his next competition.
In conclusion, Arshad Nadeem’s remarkable journey from a rural community in Punjab to Olympic glory not only brought him fame and fortune but also highlighted the cultural significance of the buffalo in Pakistan. As he basks in the glory of his gold medal and unique rewards, Nadeem’s story serves as a testament to hard work, dedication, and the unexpected rewards that life can bring.