Telangana’s Pranav Madav Surapaneni becomes first from state to qualify for Junior World Cup in Ice Skating

Pranav Madav Surapaneni, 16, from Telangana, became the first skater from the state to qualify for the Junior World Cup in Short Track Ice Skating, securing his place in Astana, Kazakhstan. His journey includes multiple national wins and a silver medal at the Asian Open Championship

Hyderabad: Telangana’s young ice skating prodigy, Pranav Madav Surapaneni, has made history by becoming the first-ever skater from the state to qualify for the Junior World Cup in Short Track Ice Skating, set to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Pranav’s remarkable achievement stands out, as he is one of only two Indian skaters — the other two hail from Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra — to make the cut for this prestigious competition.

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Pranav’s ice skating journey began seven years ago during a summer camp at Kotla Vijay Bhaskar Reddy Stadium in Yousufguda. It was here that M.A. Quadeer, Telangana’s only certified ice skating coach, discovered Pranav’s natural talent and unwavering determination.

The 16-year-old has already earned national recognition, becoming one of India’s fastest short-track skaters. He has also been a medalist at the Khelo India Winter Games for three consecutive years, cementing his position as a rising star in the sport. At the 2025 Khelo India Winter Games, Pranav clinched three medals, contributing significantly to Telangana’s fourth-place finish in the national medal tally.

What made Pranav’s performance even more extraordinary was his achievement in the senior category at just 15 years old, where he outperformed seasoned athletes and garnered widespread admiration from the national skating community.

Pranav’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. Amitab Sharma, President of the Ice Skating Association of India and Executive Member of the Indian Olympic Association, has been a constant source of encouragement for the young skater.

Earlier this year, at the Asian Open Short Track Championship held in Dehradun, Pranav won a silver medal and secured the Junior World Cup qualifying time, solidifying his place among the world’s top young skaters. Currently training in Korea, Pranav’s focus remains on improving his skills and making his mark on the international stage.

Looking ahead, Pranav expressed his ultimate goal: to represent India at the Winter Olympics. “The Junior World Cup is just the first step on a long journey. My goal is to compete at the World Championships and international tours, and ultimately, to represent India in the Winter Olympics. I’m working hard every day to make that dream a reality,” said the ambitious skater, who is also seeking financial support to fund his training and competition expenses.