FPJ Exclusive | From Olympic Heartbreak To Asian Games Ambition: India's Skeet Shooter Maheshwari Chauhan Eyes Gold In Japan

Maheshwari Chauhan, an Indian skeet shooter, made her Olympic debut at Paris 2024 but narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth in the mixed skeet event. Ahead of the 2026 Asian Games, the 27-year-old athlete is aiming to build on her Olympic experience and advance her career further. In an interview with The Free Press Journal, Chauhan shared her journey, preparation, mindset, and ambitions.

Growing up in a sporting family, Chauhan's father and grandfather were keen shooters who competed at the national level. Her mother, a national-level basketball player, also encouraged her interest in sports. Chauhan spent her childhood on a farm, surrounded by various outdoor activities, and regularly accompanied her family to the shooting range. This early exposure to the sport sparked her passion for shooting.

Chauhan's rural upbringing in Rajasthan played a significant role in shaping her sporting ambitions. She grew up playing cricket, hockey, and other sports with her friends, family, and village members. At the age of 8 or 9, her grandfather gifted her an air rifle, which ignited her competitive spirit. She would often shoot at stationary targets, always eager to outperform her brother. This early competition fueled her determination to succeed in the sport.

Looking back on her career, Chauhan identifies the most defining phase as her return to shooting after the COVID-19 pandemic. After a lengthy gap, she remained resolute in her pursuit of the sport and continued to work towards her goals. This unwavering commitment has been instrumental in her progress as an athlete.