Sri Lankan artist Mueen Saheed has paid tribute to Pakistani Olympian Arshad Nadeem by creating a special painting called “The Throw,” which celebrates Nadeem’s historic gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics in August. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Pakistan, as Nadeem secured the country’s first Olympic gold medal since 1992 with an outstanding javelin throw of 92.97 meters.
Mueen Saheed recently completed an art tour in Pakistan, where he showcased his work at prominent exhibitions in Lahore and Islamabad. The painting dedicated to Arshad Nadeem is now part of the permanent collection at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA). The artwork is an abstract representation of Nadeem and his mother, symbolizing his extraordinary accomplishments and the unity his victory brought to people across nations.
During a special presentation ceremony held at the PNCA, Saheed reflected on Nadeem’s incredible journey, highlighting his determination and the strong sense of sportsmanship he demonstrated. Saheed particularly noted the spirit of respect and healthy competition Nadeem displayed during his contest with Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, which resonated with audiences on both sides of the border.
At the event, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar commended Saheed’s heartfelt tribute. He stressed the importance of recognizing and honoring national heroes like Arshad Nadeem, who inspire not only within the field of sports but also in the broader cultural and social context. The minister applauded the painting for capturing the essence of Nadeem’s achievements and its role in fostering goodwill and cultural unity.
This gesture of appreciation through art underscores the power of sports and creativity in bridging divides and celebrating human excellence.
