Parvej Khan: The Track Showman with a Humble Heart

Parvej Khan, a name that has been lighting up America’s college athletics circuit, is much more than just a flashy athlete on the track. This 1500m specialist, known for his exuberant race finishes and magnetic personality, is also a grounded individual who treasures his roots and the simple pleasures of life.

Parvej Khan after his 1500m victory at the Interstate Athletics meet

From NCAA Stardom to Home Turf

After nearly a year, Parvej Khan returned to compete in India, giving him a chance to visit home and savor his favorite meal — dal and sabji. Khan, who first gained prominence in March by becoming the first Indian track athlete to compete at the NCAA Championships in Boston, has been making headlines ever since. Representing the University of Florida, he created a buzz when he clocked an impressive 1500m time of 3:36.21 in Portland, just shy of the national record set by Jinson Johnson.

Khan’s race videos, where he showcases his unique style of engaging the crowd and his signature chain-biting gesture during the final lap, have taken social media by storm. Despite his flair on the track, Khan admits he is not entirely comfortable with the attention he receives off the field.

A Reluctant Star Off the Track

Khan, often seen bolting out of venues to avoid selfie requests, is modest about his popularity. “I’ll be honest, I don’t like this attention. There are so many better athletes around me, and I feel they should be getting more recognition,” he says. His shoulder-length hair, often mistaken for a style statement, is actually a result of the high cost of haircuts in the US. “In Indian currency, a haircut costs around Rs 4000, so I thought I’d wait until I visited India,” he quips.

Overcoming Challenges in the US

The transition to the United States was initially daunting for Khan, especially with the language barrier. “My English wasn’t that good, and I was pretty scared to make the move,” he recalls. However, his friends in the US helped him adapt, both in sports and language. “It took me almost half an hour to explain I was looking for an oven. I had to write it down before they understood,” he shares, reflecting on his journey of acclimatization.

Home Sweet Home

While Khan appreciates the friendships and support he found in the US, he cherishes the brotherhood and love he experiences in India. “A lot of people think I want to settle in the US, but I want to come back. I’m too attached to my friends and family,” he says, longing for the familiarity and warmth of home.

A Career at Crossroads

Khan’s latest race in Panchkula, where he clocked a time of 3:42.95, may not have met his high standards, but it marked another step in his ongoing journey. As he continues to balance his life between India and the US, his dedication and humility remain his guiding principles.

An Olympic Hope Dimmed: Manu DP’s Setback

In a separate development, Manu DP, a promising javelin thrower and 2023 Asian Championship silver medallist, has seen his Olympic dreams jeopardized due to a failed doping test. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed the news, and Manu’s name has been withdrawn from the ongoing Interstate Meet following a request from the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). “We are investigating the issue and waiting for more information,” said AFI president Adille Sumariwalla.

As Khan looks forward to more achievements on the track, the sports community watches closely, hoping for his continued success and cherishing the spirit of athletes who, like Khan, blend showmanship with genuine humility.