‘Motorsports landscape in India is still growing, and funding is a big challenge'

She had to defy conservative norms and overcome significant backlash to pursue her dreams.

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Hailing from a conservative Muslim family where women driving on roads was frowned upon, she challenged societal expectations. As the only female performer in racing events, her determination and resilience serve as an inspiration. She paves the way for future generations, proving that with hard work and passion, anything is possible.

Humaira Mushtaq is the first and the only female professional car racer from Jammu and Kashmir, shattering stereotypes and records. Born with a passion for speed, she began racing at the tender age of four with go-karts, progressing to Rotax karting at six. Her talent and dedication led her to single-seaters, touring cars, GT, and F2/F3 cars. Her achievements extend beyond national borders. She made history as India's first female representative at the prestigious British Endurance Racing Championship. Competing against male drivers from various nationalities, she secured points and earned acclaim from British media.

Speaking to The Statesman, Humaira Mushtaq narrates her fascinating journey, bracing all odds and challenges, and explains how bigger funding can be a game changer.

Excerpts: Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself where you grew up, what was your upbringing like, and how were you first introduced to racing?

A: I grew up in a traditional Muslim family in Jammu and Kashmir, a place where you rarely see women driving, let alone racing. But from as early as I can remember, I was drawn to cars. I think I was around three or four when my dad gave me my first toy car, and I was hooked. I was not the kind of kid who played with dolls; I preferred hanging out with boys because they had toy cars! My dad picked up on this and when I was four he got me a custommade go-kart track. That is really where it started - and I spent hours there practising.