New Delhi, Oct 10: In a heartwarming and celebratory event, Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), one of the country’s premier educational institutions under Delhi University, honoured two of its illustrious alumni, Olympians Manu Bhaker and Maheshwari Chauhan, for their remarkable performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The special ceremony, held on Thursday, marked a proud moment for the college as it celebrated the athletes’ sporting accomplishments on a global stage, reinforcing LSR’s legacy of nurturing talent across a wide spectrum of fields.
Honouring the Trailblazers: Manu Bhaker and Maheshwari Chauhan
The event’s spotlight was on two extraordinary athletes, Manu Bhaker and Maheshwari Chauhan, who not only represented India but also made significant strides in their respective sports at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Both of these women have broken new ground in Indian sports, and the ceremony was a tribute to their grit, determination, and excellence.
Manu Bhaker, a Political Science (Hons) graduate of 2021, made history by becoming the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal. Not only did she clinch a coveted medal, but she also became the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single edition of the Olympics. Bhaker’s achievements are an inspiration to countless young sportspersons across the country, especially women aspiring to excel in the male-dominated field of shooting. Her journey from the classrooms of LSR to the Olympic podium stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her sport.
In an emotional address to the audience, Bhaker credited LSR for shaping her both academically and personally. She recalled the support and encouragement she received from her professors and peers, which, she said, helped her balance her sporting ambitions with her academic pursuits. “My time at LSR taught me to push boundaries, and that lesson has stayed with me throughout my career,” she said during her speech.
Maheshwari Chauhan, another accomplished alumna, graduated in 2017 with a Philosophy (Hons) degree. She carved her own unique path in Indian sports by becoming the first Indian woman skeet shooter to compete at the Olympics. Although Chauhan narrowly missed a bronze medal in Paris, her performance was hailed as a milestone for Indian women in the shooting discipline, a sport where Indian participation has been largely male-dominated.
Addressing the gathering, Chauhan expressed her deep gratitude to her alma mater. She shared how the intellectual environment at LSR shaped her worldview and gave her the resilience to succeed in the challenging world of international sports. “I owe much of my mental strength and ability to deal with pressure to the years I spent at LSR. The college was not just a place for academic learning, but a cradle of personal growth for me,” Chauhan remarked.
A Rising Star: Rhythm Sangwan
While Manu Bhaker and Maheshwari Chauhan were celebrated in person, LSR also recognized the achievements of Rhythm Sangwan, a third-year student at the college, who competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Sangwan, who finished 10th in a team event and 15th in the individual air pistol event, has already made a name for herself in Indian shooting.
Although Sangwan was unable to attend the ceremony, her presence was deeply felt, with faculty members and fellow students lauding her for her impressive Olympic debut. Sangwan’s participation at such a young age, while still balancing her studies at LSR, was seen as an inspiration for future generations of students and athletes.
LSR’s Legacy in Sports and Academia
Lady Shri Ram College, renowned for its academic rigor, has also become a breeding ground for sports talent over the years. The college, traditionally known for excelling in fields such as literature, political science, economics, and the arts, has witnessed a growing number of students who are making waves in the sports arena.
In her keynote speech, LSR principal Dr. Anupama Gupta expressed her pride in the accomplishments of the alumni and current students, stating, “At LSR, we aim to nurture women who excel not just in academics but in all arenas of life. Manu Bhaker and Maheshwari Chauhan embody the spirit of excellence, hard work, and perseverance that we seek to instill in our students. Today, we celebrate not just their sporting achievements, but also the values they carry from LSR – values of strength, resilience, and commitment to breaking barriers.”
Jaspal Rana: The Guiding Force
The ceremony also recognized **Jaspal Rana**, the renowned coach who played a pivotal role in Manu Bhaker’s rise to prominence. Rana, a decorated shooter himself, has been instrumental in shaping Bhaker’s career, guiding her through rigorous training and helping her overcome challenges on her way to the top. LSR honoured Rana for his dedication and the crucial role he has played in Indian shooting’s success on the international stage.
Speaking at the event, Rana acknowledged Bhaker’s determination and discipline as key factors in her success. “Manu has always been focused, and her ability to remain calm under pressure is what sets her apart. I’m proud to have played a part in her journey, but all the credit goes to her hard work and dedication,” Rana said.
An Inspiration for Future Generations
The ceremony was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a beacon of inspiration for future generations of LSR students. As Bhaker, Chauhan, and Sangwan’s achievements were highlighted, the message was clear – LSR continues to be a platform for young women to pursue their dreams, whether in academics, sports, or any other field.
Students attending the event spoke about the inspiration they derived from seeing their alumni achieve greatness. Neha Sharma, a second-year student, said, “Seeing women like Manu and Maheshwari succeed at the Olympics fills us with hope and pride. They show us that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.”
The special ceremony at Lady Shri Ram College was a fitting tribute to the Olympians who have made their mark on the international stage while representing their alma mater and country with distinction. Bhaker and Chauhan’s journey from the halls of LSR to the Olympics stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved with perseverance and determination. Their success stories serve as a source of pride not just for LSR but for the entire nation.
As LSR continues to shape the lives of young women, the achievements of Manu Bhaker, Maheshwari Chauhan, and Rhythm Sangwan will undoubtedly inspire the next generation to aim high and strive for excellence in all walks of life.
××××××××××××××
Telegram Link :
For latest news, first Hand written articles & trending news join Saachibaat telegram group
https://t.me/joinchat/llGA9DGZF9xmMDc1
 |
Ms. Pooja, |
