Sarita Kumari: Perfectly Empowered
Sarita Kumari, hailing from Faridabad, Haryana, has been a standout performer in the compound women’s open category. Her journey to the quarterfinals was marked by a dominant victory over Italy’s Eleonora Sarti, with a score of 141-135. Sarita’s performance has been a beacon of hope for India, reflecting her dedication and hard work. Her success is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the growing strength of Indian para archery on the global stage.
Sheetal Devi: The Armless Archer – Yeah She Is Gifted
Sheetal Devi’s story is one of extraordinary courage and perseverance. Born without arms due to a rare congenital disorder called Phocomelia, Sheetal has defied all odds to become one of India’s top para archers. Her journey began in 2019 when she was discovered by the Indian Army at a military camp. Since then, she has received educational support and medical care, which have been instrumental in her development as an athlete.
At the Paris Paralympics, Sheetal came within touching distance of a world record in the qualification round, showcasing her incredible talent. However, her journey was cut short in the round of 16, where she narrowly lost to Tokyo Paralympics silver medalist Mariana Zuniga. Despite the loss, Sheetal’s performance has been nothing short of inspirational, highlighting her indomitable spirit.
The Road Ahead In Archery Paralympics : My Opinion
As the Paris Paralympics continue, the focus remains on India’s para archers. With Sarita Kumari advancing to the quarterfinals and other athletes like Rakesh Kumar making significant strides, the future looks promising. The stories of Sarita and Sheetal serve as powerful reminders of what can be achieved with determination and support.
India’s journey in the Paralympics is a testament to the strength and resilience of its athletes. As we cheer for our para archers, we are reminded that every arrow shot is a symbol of hope, courage, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Archery has been a significant part of Indian history and Hinduism and excelling in this as a sport a proud and very own kind of feeling
Let Me Brief You History of Archery in Ancient India
Archery has deep roots in Indian history, dating back to ancient times. It was not only a means of hunting and warfare but also a significant part of Indian mythology and culture.
Spiritual & Ancient Significance
In Indian mythology, archery is prominently featured in epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. The legendary archer Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata, is celebrated for his unparalleled skills with the bow and arrow. His teacher, Dronacharya, is revered as the epitome of archery instruction. Similarly, in the Ramayana, Lord Rama is depicted as an expert archer, whose prowess with the bow is central to the narrative.
Historical Context: What I Found Across The Web
Historically, archery was a crucial skill for warriors in ancient India. The Maurya and Gupta empires, among others, had archers as an integral part of their military forces. The famous treatise on statecraft, the Arthashastra, written by Kautilya (Chanakya), includes detailed descriptions of archery techniques and the importance of archers in warfare.