The saga of Manu Bhaker is a masterclass in determination. Just 14, inspired by Rio 2016, she persuaded her father Ram Kishan to procure a pistol within days. This pivotal moment transformed a multi-sport prodigy into India’s shooting sensation. Born in 2002 in Haryana’s Jhajjar, her name evoked the fearlessness of Jhansi’s Rani, a hope her parents cherished.
From tennis and boxing to skating and Than Ta nationals, Manu’s talents were boundless. Shooting, however, became her true arena. 2017 nationals saw her eclipse Heena Sidhu with a record score, complemented by Asian junior silver. At 16, ISSF World Cup mixed doubles gold marked her as a prodigy, with nine national golds in Kerala amplifying her legend.
She ruled Commonwealth 2018 with a record gold and shone in junior Worlds. Tokyo’s underwhelming results were mere speedbumps. A 2021 World Cup double medal haul, 2022 Worlds silver, and 2023 Asian Games gold rebuilt her momentum. Paris 2024 was triumphant—two air pistol bronzes, pioneering India’s single-Olympics double medal feat.
Bedecked with Khel Ratna and Arjuna honors, Manu’s influence transcends the range. Her narrative of youthful boldness, rigorous training, and Olympic vindication inspires a generation, signaling that true champions seize their destiny early.