Arshad Nadeem made history at the Paris Olympics, not just by winning gold but by doing so in a way that has left an indelible mark on both the sport and his home country of Pakistan.
Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches, Nadeem set a new Olympic record with a javelin throw of 92.97 meters (305.02 feet), securing Pakistan’s first-ever individual gold medal. However, the story doesn’t end with just the medal—Nadeem received a truly unique reward that caught the world’s attention: a buffalo.
A Historic Victory of Pakistan with Deep Cultural Roots
Nadeem’s journey to Olympic glory began in the rural heartland of Punjab, Pakistan. Growing up as the third of eight children, his athletic prowess was initially channeled into cricket. But his father, a mason by trade, recognized his potential and encouraged him to try his hand at javelin. The rest, as they say, is history.
Despite his triumph, Nadeem’s path wasn’t without challenges. He often lacked the support of the Pakistani government, but his victory has changed that narrative. Along with the gold medal, Nadeem received $50,000 from World Athletics, nearly half a million dollars from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and $350,000 from Punjab’s Chief Minister Mariam Nawaz. He was also gifted two cars, including a Honda Civic with a custom license plate that reads “92.97,” paying homage to his record-breaking throw.
The Buffalo: More Than Just a Gift
Among the myriad rewards, one stood out—his father-in-law’s gift of a buffalo. While it may seem unusual, this gift carries profound cultural significance in Punjab, where a buffalo is one of the most valued and honored gifts one can receive.
In Punjab, buffalo milk—often referred to as “black gold”—is a staple, making up 72% of Pakistan’s milk supply. With its higher fat and protein content compared to cow’s milk, buffalo milk is particularly prized for making ghee, an essential ingredient in Pakistani cuisine.
But the value of a buffalo extends far beyond milk. A female buffalo, which begins producing milk at around three years old, can provide a steady income for up to 20 years. According to Dr. Burhan-e-Azam, a veterinarian and buffalo expert in Punjab, a buffalo is a “poor man’s bank”—a reliable source of both nutrition and financial security. The animal’s relatively low maintenance needs make it an even more valuable asset in rural communities.
The Cultural Legacy of the Buffalo in Punjab
The buffalo has long been intertwined with Punjab’s culture. In ancient times, there was even a profession known as “khoji,” which roughly translates to “detective” in Urdu. Khojis were experts in tracking down stolen buffaloes, following trails for days or even weeks until the thieves were caught. While modern technology has made this profession obsolete, the reverence for the buffalo remains strong.
Today, a buffalo is still considered a traditional dowry item in many Punjabi families. When a family’s buffalo dies, it’s common for neighbors to visit and offer their condolences, highlighting the deep emotional connection people have with these animals.
For Arshad Nadeem, the buffalo is more than just a symbolic gesture. It’s a reminder of his roots and the cultural heritage that shaped his journey to Olympic gold. With this gift, Nadeem’s father-in-law has ensured that the javelin champion will always have a source of fresh milk and homemade ghee—key components of the diet that fueled his rise to the top.
As Nadeem prepares for future competitions, the buffalo will serve as a constant reminder of the support and pride of his community, and the unique bond between a champion and his heritage.
