India, Jan. 17 -- Manu Bhaker generates excitement wherever she appears. From enthusiastic fans seeking selfies to attentive news crews and bashful security personnel, everyone is eager to engage with the double Olympic medallist. In the six months following her historic achievement as independent India's first athlete to secure two medals at a single Olympic Games, Manu has met with the Prime Minister, the chief minister, and various opposition leaders, among others.

"It's quite amusing to reflect on the diverse individuals I've encountered. It's truly remarkable," she remarked. Her willingness to accommodate everyone with a warm smile contributes to her popularity. She believes that this attention helps her remain grounded. This may explain why, when unnoticed, she approaches para judoka and Arjuna awardee Kapil Parmar, who is dining alone, to extend her congratulations on his significant achievement. "It wouldn't feel right if I didn't do it," she expressed.

"I always remember my roots and acknowledge that this attention is solely due to my proficiency in shooting. One day, all of this will fade, and people will move on with their lives, but my passion for shooting will endure."

Recently honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award, the highest sports accolade in the country, Manu's wisdom belies her 22 years. "The attention can be overwhelming, to be honest," she admits while posing for photographs. "I feel fortunate to bring joy to others. However, at the end of the day, I remain the same person I have always been. Perhaps people perceive me differently now, but I am uncertain."

This sentiment was evident on a serene January afternoon, where everyone in her vicinity seemed to bask in her reflected brilliance. Life after Paris has been a whirlwind. Transitioning from one celebration to another, signing endorsement contracts, and navigating the controversy surrounding her previous omission from award nominations have kept the young athlete consistently in the public eye.

However, it seems she was destined for the spotlight from the moment she began amassing medals at domestic competitions.

The journey I have undertaken has been both enjoyable and rewarding, characterized by profound lows and exhilarating highs, all of which have shaped my identity today. One crucial lesson that success has imparted is the importance of humility, while failure has taught me the value of patience and faith. Sports serve as a great equalizer. Beyond the accolades, what truly holds significance is my performance in shooting.

As she embarks on a new cycle, Manu has established short and attainable goals for herself. She acknowledges that success in sports is never assured, and thus, she is mentally preparing to accept failures as part of the process.

"This was one of the first realizations I had when I returned to practice two and a half months ago. I cannot expect to win everything simply because I am an Olympic medallist. I must remain focused and dedicate myself to hard work."

Currently balancing her training between Delhi and Dehradun under the guidance of her coach Jaspal Rana, Manu's immediate objectives include the domestic selection trials, followed by the World Cup cycle. "The Asian Games are scheduled for next year, and before we know it, the LA 2028 Olympics will be upon us. I aim to progress step by step, preparing myself for both success and failure once more, ultimately striving to change the color of my medal in Los Angeles," she stated. 

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