“Made country and family proud”: Manisha Keer’s father after Asian Games silver
Bhopal shooter Manisha Keer wins silver at Asian Games 2026. Her father shares her journey from fish farming family to international glory.
The family of Bhopal-based shooter Manisha Keer is beaming with pride following her spectacular performance at the Asian Games 2026 in Japan. Alongside teammates Neeru and Aashima Ahlawat, Keer clinched the silver medal in the women's trap team event on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone for Indian shooting.
A journey from fish farming to international podiums
The path to glory was not paved with gold, but with hard work and perseverance. Speaking about the family's background, Manisha's father, Kailash Keer, revealed that they initially supported her sporting ambitions through their own resources. “Initially, whatever was needed for the child, we managed from our own pocket. Our family was involved in fish farming, and whatever income came from it was used to meet her requirements,” he shared. As her talent grew, government support eventually helped cover major expenses.
Manisha's entry into the world of shooting was almost accidental. Her elder sister, Sona, who was involved in water sports, was approached by a coach at a shooting academy in Bishankhedi. When asked if anyone in the family could take up the sport, Sona suggested Manisha. The young athlete cleared her very first trial in 2013 and has been on a winning streak ever since.
Overcoming setbacks and eyeing the Olympics
The journey has not been without its hurdles. Her sister, Sona Keer, noted that while Manisha had a strong start winning medals at junior, senior, and youth levels, she did face a period of struggle. “There was a phase when she went through a slight downturn, but with continued practice she came back strongly,” Sona explained.
With the Asian Games silver secured, the family's eyes are now set on a much larger stage. Kailash Keer expressed his ultimate dream: “Now, my only wish is that she plays in the Olympics.”
The winning performance in Japan
The Indian trio's performance in the women's trap team event was a display of precision and composure. The key details of the competition include:
- Team Members: Manisha Keer, Neeru, and Aashima Ahlawat.
- Indian Score: A combined total of 328 points.
- The Podium: India secured Silver, finishing three points ahead of Kuwait (325 points), who took the bronze. China claimed the gold medal.
As Manisha begins her preparations for the next chapter of her career, the entire family remains hopeful that her focus on the Olympics will turn their collective dream into a reality.