Star pistol shooter Manu Bhaker returned to India on Wednesday after her historic achievement of winning two bronze medals at a single edition of the Olympic Games. She was greeted by hundreds of supporters and family members who braved the rain to give her a memorable reception at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Grand Welcome at the Airport
Manu Bhaker, along with her coach Jaspal Rana, arrived on Air India flight AI 142 from Paris, which landed around 9:20 am, an hour later than scheduled. Despite the morning drizzle, a large crowd gathered early at the airport to welcome the young athlete and her coach with great enthusiasm. The 22-year-old shooter was showered with bouquets, garlands, and celebratory music as she exited the airport.
Historic Achievement
Bhaker made history by winning two bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and the 10m air pistol mixed team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone, as the last similar achievement was by British-Indian athlete Norman Pritchard, who won two silver medals in the 200m sprint and 200m hurdles at the 1900 Olympics, a feat that occurred during the pre-Independence era.
Overwhelming Support
Among the crowd at the airport were Bhaker’s parents, Ram Kishan and Sumedha, and numerous sports enthusiasts and officials from her home states of Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand, the latter being the state of her coach Jaspal Rana. Rana’s father, Narayan Singh Rana, a former Uttarakhand Sports Minister, expressed immense pride in the young shooter’s achievements. “It is a matter of pride for us that a daughter of India is coming back after creating history by winning two medals in an Olympics. She is only 22 years old,” he said.
Media and Public Reaction
The airport was abuzz with excitement, as people celebrated Bhaker’s success with song and dance, holding banners featuring photos of the athlete and her coach. The significant police presence ensured that the crowd was managed smoothly during the celebratory event.
Future Plans
Following her arrival, Bhaker is scheduled to meet Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in the afternoon. She will return to Paris on Saturday to participate in the Olympic closing ceremony on Sunday, where she will serve as one of India’s flag-bearers.
Manu Bhaker’s historic accomplishment and the heartfelt reception she received highlight the pride and joy felt by her supporters and the nation. Her journey continues to inspire many, and her future endeavors are eagerly anticipated.
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