Undeterred by ‘fame and fortune’ after double win in Paris, Manu Bhaker wants to stick to her routine

NEW DELHI: Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhakerwho made history at the Paris Olympics by becoming the first Indian woman to win two medals – remains focused and unconcerned about the potential fame and money that awaits her upon her return to India.
Bhaker had a three-month break after winning two bronze medals in three days, narrowly missing out on a third medal in the 25m pistol final, finishing fourth.
Bhaker won his first bronze medal in the 10m pistol shooting and another in the mixed team pistol shooting with Sarabjot Singh.
Bhaker displayed unyielding determination throughout her events, even fighting for her third medal.
Her personal trainer, Jaspal Rana, has been by her side constantly, ensuring she stays grounded. But with millions in prize money and endorsements looming, keeping her focus squarely on her sport can be a challenge.
Her management company has already been flooded with 40 offers for commercial collaborations, ranging from e-commerce to skincare, even before she returns to India.
In an interview to PTI, talking about her future plans, Manu said that she plans to stick to her shooting schedule along with other activities like gym and yoga.
“I don’t know how I will manage all this (fame and fortune). I think I will just stick to shooting and my other routine (gym and yoga) around it. Whatever God gives you, accept it and try to help people with what you have,” Bhaker said.
“For now, I just want to eat a variety of Indian food for the next three months. I don’t think Jaspal sir will let me sleep in late in the morning. I would eat a lot, but I would make sure I exercise too.”
Manu’s immediate coach Jaspal Rana lauded her achievement but stressed the importance of the coming months in shaping her future. He believes the next three months will give a fair indication of her trajectory.
“Time will tell, in three months,” Rana said when asked if Manu would remain the same after his performance here.
“She now has to answer to a lot of people, she has to fulfill her obligations to her fans. There is a price to pay (when you become famous), that’s why we have completely postponed three months,” the coach said.
Despite his accomplishments, Bhaker remains focused on future goals, including aiming for Los Angeles in 2028.
“Now I’m the type of person who looks for continuity. But I wasn’t like that before. One year for this sport, one year for that sport, and so on.
“But now I’ve become someone who’s always looking for consistency. They say slow and steady wins the race. I’m taking home more motivation to do better in the next Games.”
After the competition ends, Manu could stay in Paris for some time if she is named India’s flag bearer at the closing ceremony. If that happens, she would be overjoyed.
“It would be the honour of a lifetime. It would be such a privilege, but no matter what the IOA thinks, there are many Indian athletes who deserve it much more than me.”