Manu Bhaker to Lead Indian Contingent as Flag-Bearer at Asian Games 2026
Manu Bhaker's Joy as Flag-Bearer
Manu Bhaker, an Indian shooter with double Olympic medals and an Asian Games gold, expressed her delight at being selected as one of the flag-bearers for the Indian team during the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2026. She described the experience as 'heartwarming' and reflected on her cherished memories from previous opening ceremonies at major sporting events. Alongside her, kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat will also carry the flag for India during the ceremony scheduled for Saturday.
Reflecting on Past Experiences
In a video message prior to the ceremony, Bhaker shared that learning about her selection as a flag-bearer filled her with nostalgia, prompting her to recall her journey in the sport. 'When I found out yesterday, I was flooded with memories from my early days. I never imagined I would reach this point in my career. It’s a proud and happy moment for me to represent my country,' she stated, expressing gratitude for the support she has received.
Memories from Previous Ceremonies
Manu reminisced about her first Asian Games in 2018, where she was unable to attend the opening ceremony. She recalled her experience at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and advice from her late coach, Jaspal Rana, who advised her to skip the ceremonies unless she was a flag-bearer, as they could affect her performance. 'I was just 16 during my first Asian Games, and this is my third. I remember being told that if I wasn’t carrying the flag, I shouldn’t attend the ceremonies because our matches often start right after,' she explained.
Encouragement for Fellow Athletes
Ahead of the competition, Bhaker urged her fellow athletes to seize this 'once-in-a-lifetime opportunity' and to focus on their performance rather than the challenges they might face. She acknowledged the accommodation issues some athletes have encountered in Aichi and Nagoya, stating, 'We will face challenges, but we must enjoy this experience and give our best. Winning medals is important, but what matters most is our effort.'
About the Flag-Bearers
Bhaker, who secured two bronze medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, will compete in various shooting events including the women's 10m air pistol and the mixed team event. She made history by being the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single Olympic edition. Pawan Sehrawat, stepping in as the male flag-bearer, aims to lead India to victory in men's kabaddi, a sport in which India has historically excelled at the Asian Games.