Indian Olympic shooter Manu Bhaker has been honored with the prestigious BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year (ISWOTY) Award for 2024. The 22-year-old shooting sensation earned this recognition following a global public vote, solidifying her place as one of India’s most influential sports figures. Bhaker’s achievement is monumental, as she became the first Indian woman to win two medals in a single Olympic Games, a remarkable feat that continues to inspire athletes around the world.
This recognition comes after a stellar performance at the Paris Olympics, where Bhaker showcased her extraordinary skills, resilience, and dedication. Her groundbreaking achievements in shooting have earned her the title of BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year, a prestigious award that celebrates the achievements of exceptional women athletes across India. As a result, Bhaker’s accomplishments have not only been celebrated within India but have also garnered significant global recognition.
Manu Bhaker’s Historic Achievement at the Olympics
Manu Bhaker’s success at the Olympics is a milestone in Indian sports history. At the Paris Olympic Games, she made her mark by winning two bronze medals. Bhaker became the first Indian woman to clinch an Olympic medal in shooting, a remarkable achievement that set the stage for her second bronze medal just days later.
In the women’s 10m air pistol event, Bhaker demonstrated precision and composure, securing her place in Olympic history. She followed up her success with another impressive performance in the mixed 10m air pistol event, where she teamed up with fellow shooter Sarabjot Singh to win a second bronze medal. This was a defining moment not only for Bhaker but also for Indian sports, as her performance put India on the global map in the world of shooting.
These two Olympic medals earned her recognition at the highest level, and the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award serves as the perfect acknowledgment of her perseverance and dedication to the sport.
Manu Bhaker’s Words on Her Journey
Upon receiving the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award, Bhaker shared her heartfelt gratitude and motivation for future generations. “I have had a journey of ups and downs,” Bhaker said, reflecting on her career. “I hope I can inspire women, all athletes, and people with big dreams. Your journey doesn’t end if you are struggling. You write your own story.”
Bhaker’s words resonate with anyone who has faced adversity in their lives. Her journey has been filled with challenges, but her ability to overcome them and achieve greatness serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes, especially women in India.
Bhaker’s success story is an inspiration to many, showcasing that hard work, persistence, and passion can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Her award-winning journey highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of obstacles and serves as an example for others to follow.
Avani Lekhara: BBC ISWOTY Para-sportswoman of the Year Award
Alongside Bhaker, another athlete who received special recognition at the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards was Avani Lekhara. Lekhara, a Paralympic gold medalist, was awarded the BBC ISWOTY Para-sportswoman of the Year Award for her outstanding achievements in the field of Para-sports.
Lekhara made history as the first Indian woman to win three Paralympic medals, a remarkable feat that includes a gold medal at the Paris Paralympics, as well as a gold and bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Her resilience and groundbreaking success continue to inspire others, and she is paving the way for greater inclusion and excellence in Para-sports.
Lekhara’s story, like Bhaker’s, highlights the power of perseverance and determination. Both women have shattered barriers in their respective fields, and their success is a testament to their hard work and unyielding spirit. These athletes exemplify what it means to break boundaries, overcome challenges, and continue to push forward, no matter the odds.
Other Awards and Recognitions
The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards also recognized other remarkable athletes who have excelled in their respective disciplines. One such athlete was Archer Sheetal Devi, who won the Emerging Athlete Award. At just 18 years old, Devi made history as India’s youngest Paralympic medalist, adding a bronze to her already impressive collection of two golds and one silver from the 2022 Asian Para Games. Devi’s exceptional talent and determination continue to earn her recognition as one of India’s brightest rising stars in Para-archery.
Additionally, Mithali Raj, a cricket legend, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for her unparalleled leadership and contributions to Indian women’s cricket. Raj, who captained the Indian women’s cricket team for a record 18 years, has been a trailblazer in the sport. Under her captaincy, the team achieved historic milestones, and Raj’s influence on the game has inspired countless young women to pursue cricket.
Her outstanding leadership and remarkable cricketing career have left a lasting impact on the sport, and the Lifetime Achievement Award was a fitting recognition of her legacy.
The BBC ISWOTY Awards and Their Impact
The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Awards have become an important platform to recognize the achievements of India’s top female athletes and amplify their voices. The awards, organized by BBC in collaboration with the Collective Newsroom, highlight the accomplishments of women who have not only excelled in their sports but have also inspired future generations of women athletes.
As Rupa Jha, CEO of Collective Newsroom, said, “I am delighted to see the impact these awards have been bringing to Indian women in sports – amplifying their achievements, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations.” The awards go beyond simple recognition; they help create lasting change in the sporting landscape, fostering greater participation, inclusion, and opportunities for women in sports.
This year’s theme, “Champions’ Champions,” also highlighted the unsung heroes who have played a crucial role in supporting and shaping the careers of medal-winning athletes. A special documentary featuring the guide runners of blind athletes was showcased on BBC’s six Indian language platforms, further shedding light on the incredible efforts of those who assist athletes with disabilities.
The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award is not just a recognition of achievements in sports; it is a celebration of resilience, passion, and the power of sports to transform lives. The impact of these awards extends far beyond the ceremony, as they help inspire the next generation of athletes and ensure that their voices are heard.
A Call for Change and Greater Support for Women in Sports
The BBC ISWOTY Awards serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting women in sports and ensuring they have access to the resources, opportunities, and recognition they deserve. As more women break barriers and achieve success on the global stage, it becomes crucial for sports organizations, governments, and the media to continue supporting and promoting their achievements.
The stories of athletes like Manu Bhaker, Avani Lekhara, Sheetal Devi, and Mithali Raj show the immense potential of women in sports. These awards celebrate their remarkable achievements, but they also shine a light on the work that still needs to be done to ensure greater equality, inclusion, and opportunity for women in sports.
Conclusion: The Power of the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award
The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year Award for 2024 is a testament to the incredible talent, hard work, and determination of India’s female athletes. Manu Bhaker’s historic achievements in shooting and her emotional journey to winning two Olympic medals have earned her the top honor this year. She, alongside other remarkable women like Avani Lekhara, Sheetal Devi, and Mithali Raj, exemplifies the power of sport to inspire, unite, and create change.
The awards not only recognize these athletes for their achievements but also amplify the message that women in sports deserve equal recognition, support, and opportunities. The impact of these awards is far-reaching, and they will continue to inspire and empower future generations of female athletes in India and beyond.
