By Ghani Ur Rehman
PESHAWAR: The martial arts community in Afghanistan and Peshawar is in deep mourning following the passing of former Afghan martial arts athlete and qualified coach Ustad Abdul Rahim Habibi, a respected figure known for his lifelong dedication to training and mentoring young athletes. His body was transported to Afghanistan through the Pak-Afghan border at Torkham, where he was laid to rest in his ancestral hometown.
Ustad Abdul Rahim Habibi earned widespread respect for his expertise, discipline, and selfless contributions to martial arts. His death marks an irreparable loss not only for his family but also for the countless students and athletes who benefited from his guidance and mentorship over the years.
The late Habibi was the father of Naveed Habibi, a martial arts coach at the Martial Arts Academy established at the Hayatabad Sports Complex in Peshawar under the Provincial Sports Directorate. Despite his advancing age, Ustad Habibi remained actively engaged with the academy, frequently visiting to guide young trainees. He consistently emphasized physical fitness, discipline, patience, and strong moral values—principles he regarded as fundamental to both martial arts and everyday life.
Throughout his career, Ustad Abdul Rahim Habibi devoted himself to promoting martial arts and nurturing the younger generation. He distinguished himself not only as a skilled athlete but also as a committed coach who laid a strong technical and ethical foundation for aspiring martial artists. He firmly believed that martial arts extends beyond competition, describing it as a comprehensive system that strengthens the body, builds character, and cultivates mental resilience.
Coaches and athletes affiliated with various martial arts academies paid rich tribute to the late mentor, describing him as sincere, humble, and exceptionally dedicated to his students. Many athletes acknowledged that his mentorship significantly enhanced their physical conditioning and competitive performance while instilling discipline and focus in their lives.
Sports circles observed that his passing marks the conclusion of a distinguished chapter characterized by commitment, integrity, and service to the sport. His legacy, they noted, will endure through the accomplishments of his students and the continued promotion of martial arts in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, his son Naveed Habibi expressed profound grief, stating that he had lost a loving father and lifelong guide who shaped his character and professional journey. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to fellow coaches, athletes, and members of the martial arts community in Peshawar for their support and solidarity during this difficult period.
Ustad Abdul Rahim Habibi will be remembered as a mentor, role model, and pioneer whose lifelong mission centered on empowering youth through martial arts and instilling in them the enduring values of discipline, respect, and perseverance.
