Vidarsa K Vinod Celebrated for Historic Asian Games Silver Medals

Vidarsa K Vinod, a double silver medallist at the 2026 Asian Games, received a hero's welcome in Thiruvananthapuram. Celebrated for her historic achievements in shooting, she expressed joy at the reception and highlighted her pride in representing her country and state. Vidarsa's accomplishments have led to a proposal for her appointment to a government position, aiming to inspire future athletes in Keralam. Her success adds to India's strong performance at the Games, showcasing the nation's prowess in various sports disciplines.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 29, 2026, 07:12 IST

A Hero's Welcome for Vidarsa K Vinod

Thiruvananthapuram (Keralam) [India], September 29: Vidarsa K Vinod, who earned double silver medals at the 2026 Asian Games, was warmly greeted by fans and family upon her arrival at Thiruvananthapuram Airport on Monday night. She expressed her joy at the enthusiastic reception.

"I won these medals for my country and my people in Kerala, and I never anticipated such a grand welcome. It fills me with happiness to be back here. I am thrilled to see everyone," Vidarsa shared with reporters at the airport.

Her return follows a remarkable performance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where she made history by securing two silver medals in team events.

Vidarsa was a key member of the Indian women's 10m air rifle team that clinched silver in the first medal event for India at the Games. Alongside teammates Elavenil Valarivan and Sonam Uttam Maskar, they achieved a qualification aggregate of 1898.0 points, finishing in second place.

This accomplishment marks Vidarsa as the first female athlete from Keralam to earn an Asian Games medal in shooting.

She later added another silver medal as part of the women's 50m rifle 3 positions team, where she, Tilottama Sen, and Ashi Chouksey secured second place with a combined score of 1763-90x, while China took home the gold.

Both Vidarsa and Tilottama also advanced to the finals in the individual women's 50m rifle 3 positions event.

In recognition of her achievements, Keralam's Sports Minister OJ Janeesh has proposed her appointment to a suitable government position under the sports quota provisions.

In a letter addressed to Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan, Janeesh emphasized Vidarsa's groundbreaking success and urged the authorities to assess her eligibility and initiate the necessary processes.

The minister noted that this appointment would not only honor Vidarsa's accomplishments but also inspire young athletes throughout the state.

Vidarsa's two medals contribute to India's impressive performance at the 2026 Asian Games, as the nation continues to excel in shooting and various other sports disciplines.