Manu Bhaker’s Father Criticizes Government for Khel Ratna Snub, Urges Focus on Education Over Sports
Disappointment in Sports Recognition: Manu Bhaker’s Father Speaks Out
In a heartfelt expression of frustration, Ram Kishan Bhaker, father of double Paris Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, criticized the Indian government for overlooking his daughter for the prestigious Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award. This award, which is the highest sporting honour in India, has raised questions about the recognition of Olympic athletes in the country.
Ram Kishan Bhaker openly expressed his regret for encouraging Manu to pursue a career in sports. He advised parents across India to reconsider their aspirations for their children, suggesting they focus instead on education and aim for prestigious roles such as IAS or IPS officers. “If you need money, then get them into cricket; if you need power, make them IAS/IPS aspirants,” he stated.
Bhaker’s comments come as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by athletes in India. Despite Manu’s historic achievements—becoming the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympics—her contributions have seemingly been overshadowed by a lack of institutional support.
He further lamented, “They are talking about hosting the 2036 Olympics, but how can we expect to nurture talent when you discourage them like this?” The sentiment reflects a growing concern among sports enthusiasts about the limited recognition and support for athletes, particularly those competing in non-mainstream sports.
Manu’s coach, Jaspal Rana, has also joined the chorus of criticism directed at the Sports Ministry and the National Rifle Association of India, emphasizing that Manu’s achievements should have guaranteed her nomination for the Khel Ratna award. “Her name should have been there automatically,” he insisted, reinforcing the notion that talent and hard work should be celebrated and recognized accordingly.
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