Nagoya, September 19, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker said being chosen as one of India’s flag-bearers for the Asian Games opening ceremony brought back memories of her early days in sport, describing the honour as a proud and emotional moment in her journey.
Bhaker, who will lead the Indian contingent alongside kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat at the opening ceremony in Nagoya on Saturday, recalled making her Asian Games debut as a 16-year-old in 2018.
“Honestly, when I got to know yesterday, I had all these flashback memories of my earlier days. When I started, I never thought that this is where I could reach one day in my sport. So, it is definitely a very heartwarming feeling. I feel really proud, honoured, and happy to be chosen as the flag bearer of my homeland,” Bhaker said in an IOA video.
She thanked her supporters and said the occasion had made her reflect on her journey since her first Asian Games appearance in Jakarta and Palembang.
Bhaker also recalled how demanding the schedule can be for shooters at major multi-sport events, with competitions often beginning immediately after the opening ceremony.
“I remember I was 16 years old at my first Asian Games, and this is my third. My first one was in Jakarta, though we were in Palembang, which was really far from the main village, so we were not able to go there,” she said.
She recalled her coach Jaspal Singh allowing her to attend ceremonies only if she was involved in carrying the flag, given the early start of shooting competitions.
“Usually, our competitions start right the day after the opening ceremony. So after that, it turned out that every time I attended an opening ceremony, I was either holding the flag or watching it on TV. It feels very nostalgic because I never imagined I would be here one day. Sports is just amazing!” Bhaker said.
As Indian athletes prepare for competition, Bhaker urged them to make the most of the experience and not allow issues surrounding the Games to distract them.
“To all the athletes participating from India in the Asian Games in Japan, my message is that yes, we will have some issues. I saw a couple of issues circulating on social media. Regardless, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience. We have to make sure that we enjoy this time rather than complaining, and have the best time of our lives,” she said.
The shooter stressed that athletes should focus on preparation and giving their best rather than becoming overly concerned about the final medal tally.
“We should prepare as best as we can and try to perform at our best. We have all worked so hard to be here, and we can’t waste our energy complaining about what’s right or wrong. Instead, the best we can do is give our best,” she said.
“Winning a medal or not is a different story, but what is in our hands is to give our best. I really hope a lot of Indians will be cheering for us,” Bhaker added.
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