\u201cI didn\u2019t even know what shooting was. I only knew cricket, volleyball and football. I didn\u2019t even know about shooting and I didn\u2019t even think about it,\u201d Manisha recalled.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Her elder sister Sona, herself a sportsperson, played a key role in introducing her to shooting. But pursuing the sport presented challenges from the outset, particularly for a family with limited financial resources.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cMy family was not that capable to support me. They couldn\u2019t give me everything that I wanted. It was very difficult for me,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The financial demands of shooting became even more apparent when Manisha began travelling for competitions. Still only 18, she had to learn how to manage with limited resources while continuing her pursuit of the sport.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWhen I used to go out for competitions, I had to face a lot of challenges. I couldn\u2019t eat what I wanted to eat. I had to save some money,\u201d she recollected.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Her initial years at the Madhya Pradesh State Shooting Academy also required her to adapt quickly. With no regular coach available during the early phase, Manisha learned by making use of the support and facilities around her, with her sister providing important guidance.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIn the academy, whatever was there was enough for us. I mean, you have to do what you have,\u201d Manisha said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
That approach became central to her development. From learning a sport she had barely heard of, Manisha gradually progressed through the ranks and made her mark internationally, winning a junior World Championship silver medal in trap in 2018 and an Asian Games silver medal as part of India's women's trap team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The struggles of her early years also taught her to become more independent.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cNo one can be together all the time. We have to take care of ourselves too. That was also a learning point,\u201d she reflected.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Looking back at the journey, Manisha believes her growth came from learning to work with whatever resources were available to her.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI learned from whatever I had, and that\u2019s how I grew up,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
As her career progressed, Manisha also found increasing institutional support through the National Rifle Association of India, which provided opportunities to train, compete and represent the country.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI learned from whatever I had, and that\u2019s how I grew up,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
From not knowing what shooting was to becoming an international medallist for India, Manisha's journey has been defined by resilience, adaptability and an ability to make the most of every opportunity that came her way.<\/p>\r\n\r\n