Mumbai: Bhavani Devi's remarkable performance at the Tokyo Olympics was anticipated to significantly boost the profile of fencing in India. However, for athletes like Shruti Joshi, who secured a bronze medal at the National Games after a competitive match against Bhavani in the women's sabre semi-finals, the challenges within this still-developing sport remain evident.

Shruti's journey began in Nagpur, where she hails from a modest background; her father works as a private driver, and her mother is a homemaker. Now, at 22 years old, she is actively seeking financial assistance to elevate her competitive experience from national to international levels.

"This National Games medal is a good achievement, but I aspire to reach beyond this level. I aim to participate in international competitions, and for that, I require funding," Shruti expressed. "I have reached out to numerous individuals, yet many still inquire, 'What is fencing?' While Bhavani didi's participation in the Olympics in 2021 has contributed to some awareness, it has not yet made a substantial impact."

Having earned her first medal at the National Games, Shruti plans to seek employment to finance her fencing pursuits. Throughout her life, she has not allowed financial constraints to hinder her ambitions.

Initially captivated by the distinctive nature of fencing, she began training at the age of 14. Despite her father's income being insufficient to cover the costs associated with this expensive sport, she was never discouraged from following her passion.

Understanding my family's circumstances, I doubted their ability to support my pursuit of this sport. Financially, we faced significant challenges. However, they never once questioned my needs, Shruti remarked.

With the occasional financial assistance from her first coach, Ankit Gajghiye, for tournament travel, Shruti advanced through the age-group categories within the state. She subsequently participated in the SAI trials and is currently training at their center in Kerala.

She recognizes that achieving success and earning medals in India will only take her so far. Her aspirations extend beyond national borders, similar to Bhavani. In the past two months, Shruti has encountered the prominent figure of Indian fencing on two occasions. She faced Bhavani in the Round of 16 at the Senior Nationals last month and again at the National Games in Dehradun. Although she lost in the semi-finals, the score (10-15) was much closer, instilling in her a sense of belief—along with a bronze medal—that she is progressing in the right direction.

“I approached the match with great confidence. I gave it my all. I am determined to improve so that when we meet again, I can secure a victory. I do not wish to remain stagnant; I aspire to compete internationally and, like her, ultimately at the Olympics.”

Shruti has unfortunately missed three international competitions in Europe due to financial constraints. She aims to establish herself further in India and, sooner rather than later, explore opportunities abroad. “I do not intend to stay in India for long. My ambitions are much greater.”

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