Indian trap shooter Neeru Dhanda’s 2026 Asian Games gold in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, rewarded her years of hard work and family sacrifices. With two golds and a silver in trap shooting, she became the first Indian woman to win an individual Asian Games gold in a shotgun event. As she prepares to lead the Indian contingent as flag bearer at the closing ceremony, Neeru speaks to Bangalore Times about overcoming fear, India’s changing sporting landscape and the lessons beyond the podium. Excerpts:
The medals we have won so far are just the beginning. Young athletes are coming forward, and with the hard work of the entire team and the federation, many more medals will follow
It is a complete system,” she says. But when you look beyond that fear, life becomes beautiful,” she says, and adds, “Fear is necessary because it gives you clarity to take the next step. “Remembering everything my family has done for me, through the good and bad times, gives me the courage to take the next step,” she adds.
As India’s sporting landscape grows, Neeru credits better facilities, planning and support systems for helping athletes aim higher. “Facilities and opportunities together help an athlete move forward. The government, federation, coaches and the entire team all play an important role. With her Asian Games goal achieved, her sights are now set on the Olympics. “We are preparing with the same mindset as the Asian Games. We imagine ourselves winning and bringing home a gold medal for the country. When the Indian flag goes up, what could be prouder than that?” she adds. Winning three medals also meant handling pressure and fear. For Neeru, fear is not something to avoid, but a sign to keep moving forward. “Every athlete feels pressure and fear. Once you free yourself from that fear, you have to focus on doing your work with complete dedication. ” Her family remains her biggest source of strength throughout her journey.