Winning an Olympic medal in a nation of 1.5 billion people is a rare feat. For Manu Bhaker, the young shooting sensation from Haryana, this achievement brought not only national recognition but also a taste of the peculiar dynamics of fame in India. After her historic double medal win at the Paris Olympics, Manu returned to a rousing welcome in Chennai, a city known for its starstruck fans.
The Velammal Nexus, a group of schools, organized a grand felicitation for Manu, complete with cardboard cutouts, a miniature Eiffel Tower, and a 10-foot Rubik’s cube portrait. The event was a whirlwind of well-meaning gestures, enthusiastic students, and a media frenzy.
Manu gracefully navigated the chaos, signing autographs and distributing scholarships, but the pressure intensified when a student unexpectedly requested a song. A little embarrassed, Manu obliged, singing a popular Bollywood number. This was followed by a request to join a group of girls dancing to another popular Bollywood tune, ‘Kala Chashma.’ Manu, with good humor and grace, joined in, showcasing her ability to adapt to the unexpected.
However, the celebratory mood took a turn when a reporter asked a pointed question about Vinesh Phogat’s recent controversy, a question that seemed out of place in a felicitation event. The question was followed by another directed at Manu’s mother, about her conversation with fellow Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra.
This barrage of personal and politically charged questions proved too much. Manu, without a word, left the event, highlighting the often-overwhelming nature of fame.
The incident underscores the unique pressures faced by athletes in India. Their achievements are celebrated with a fervor that can be overwhelming, and their personal lives often become subjects of public scrutiny. Manu’s experience serves as a reminder that behind the medals and accolades, there’s a human being navigating the complexities of sudden fame and trying to maintain a sense of normalcy.
