Aakash Bhardwaj’s journey from late starter to India’s Asian Games shooter

Jaipur shooter Aakash Bhardwaj, who first picked up a pistol at 21, has overcome financial hardship, long journeys and self-training to earn a place in India’s Asian Games squad. His journey reflects determination, family sacrifice and faith in performance

Hyderabad: Aakash Bhardwaj did not follow the conventional route of an international shooter. He had never picked up a pistol until the age of 21. Today, the marksman from Jaipur is set to represent India in the men’s 10m air pistol event at the upcoming 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Hailing from Niwaru Road on the outskirts of Jaipur, Aakash grew up in a modest household. His father worked long hours as a commercial driver, earning Rs 10,000 a month. Before taking up shooting, Aakash pursued athletics and rugby, winning a national bronze medal in rugby. Concerns over contact injuries prompted him to look for an individual sport in which personal discipline determined the outcome.

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In late 2021, an academy advertisement drew him to the shooting range. His natural precision surprised coaches on his very first day.

Reflecting on his family’s sacrifices, Aakash Bhardwaj said, “Coming from a background where every rupee counted, shooting felt out of reach at first. My father worked relentlessly as a driver to provide for us. When I showed genuine promise, he bought my first pistol on a credit card. My elder brother Subham covered my monthly academy fees from his own earnings. My father and brother made countless sacrifices so I could pursue this dream without carrying the financial burden.”

The daily routine was gruelling. Aakash routinely walked, hitched rides or cycled 14 kilometres to reach the Marudhara Sports Shooting Academy on Kalwar Road. He saved Rs 10 to Rs 20 from his daily travel allowance to purchase basic nutrition and training pellets. Without a personal coach during his formative phase, he designed his own conditioning routine.

Speaking about his solitary training journey, Aakash added, “In the beginning, I had to figure out many things on my own. I would spend six to seven hours every single day doing dumbbell conditioning and dry-fire drills. I used to analyse my errors closely, noting down how my shots shifted whenever my neck tilted. That solitary grind taught me how to stay calm and trust my own hard work.”

His breakthrough came through consistent domestic performances, eventually propelling him into the national selection trials. Aakash highlighted how the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) provided a level playing field and prompt institutional backing.

“When you come from a humble background, you need a system where only your performance matters. The best part of NRAI’s selection process is its complete transparency. My selection for the Asian Games was earned strictly through the ranking points accumulated across the trials.

“The administrative team at NRAI has backed me at every turn. Whenever I needed logistical help, equipment clearance or administrative support, the federation sorted it out immediately. That reassurance lets athletes like me focus entirely on hitting the target.”

As he prepares for his maiden Asian Games campaign at the Aichi Prefectural General Shooting Gallery, Aakash remains determined.

“If my journey has taught me one lesson, it is that no hardship can hold you back if you remain dedicated. When you believe in your preparation and stay disciplined, results will follow. I am looking forward to giving my absolute best for India in Japan.”