- Fatimah Sarfaraz and her sister break conventional norms by becoming the first and only females in their family to perform daring acrobatic acts with the Dhol International Circus.
- Lack of government support hinders Fatimah’s dream of representing Pakistan in international acrobatics and gymnastics competitions.
- Facing challenges such as catcalling and aging equipment, Fatimah’s story emphasizes the urgent need for increased government support for circus artists in Pakistan, urging investment in infrastructure, equipment, and training to unlock their untapped potential on the global stage.
In the heart of Pakistan, where a vibrant culture and tradition exists, there is a world often unseen by many – the world of the circus. 21-year-old Fatimah Sarfaraz and her sister stand as beacons of courage and resilience. The sister duo are the heart of the Dhol International Circus, performing daring gymnastic acts all over Pakistan.
Fatima Sarfaraz and her sister have been working in the circus as acrobats and have been performing life defying acts all their lives since they were 3 years old. They are the sole earners of their family and have been trained and taught by their father who was also a performer in the same circus all his life.
Breaking Barriers by Becoming the First Women Circus Performers
Breaking away from conventional norms, Fatimah and her sister have become pioneers within their family by venturing into the world of the circus. Their acrobatic prowess has set them apart as the first and last females in their lineage to join the captivating world of circus performances. With grace and daring skill, they have etched a unique space for themselves in the circus troupe. Recently the group is performing their act at Port Grand in Karachi, receiving the appreciation of the audiences.
Fatimah Sarfaraz Dreams Big for International Representation
Despite their incredible talent, Fatimah highlights the lack of government support for circus artists like her in Pakistan. Yearning to elevate the nation’s name on the international stage, she expresses her aspirations for representing Pakistan in acrobatics and gymnastics competitions worldwide, including the Olympics. Her dreams, however, are hindered by the absence of financial aid and encouragement from authorities.
Fatima says she wishes to perform at a global stage making Pakistan proud,
“Pakistani female acrobats or gymnasts do not represent the nation at an international stage. I wish to perform and carry the flag of Pakistan high at an International forum one day!”
Challenges Faced as a Pakistani Female Circus Acrobat
As Fatimah and her sister perform at the circus, they encounter a myriad of challenges. Catcalling from male spectators is an unfortunate reality that they brush aside, choosing instead to concentrate on their craft. The lack of financial resources further exacerbates their struggles, with aging equipment posing a constant threat to their safety. The fear of equipment failure looms large, a constant reminder of the precarious nature of their profession.
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The Urgent Need for Support
Fatimah’s story sheds light on the urgent need for increased government support for circus artists in Pakistan. Their potential to bring honour and recognition to the nation on international platforms remains untapped due to financial constraints. A call for investment in infrastructure, equipment, and training could catapult talents like Fatimah onto the global stage, proudly representing Pakistan.
Fatimah Sarfaraz’s journey emerges as a tale of determination, dreams, and challenges. As she and her sister continue to defy expectations within the Pakistani society, their aspirations for international recognition remain unfulfilled.
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