A girl, a bow and a dream: How 17-year-old Kumkum took down Korea’s archery giants at Asian Games

Seventeen-year-old archer Kumkum Mohod from Amravati, Maharashtra, stunned archery enthusiasts by winning India's first gold medal in women's individual recurve at the 2026 Asian Games. Despite her new status, she remains humble and insists that an archer's success comes from within rather than the equipment they wield. Coach Praful Dange’s motto, "Bande mein dum hona chaiye (A person should have grit)," echoed through Kumkum's journey, motivating her to achieve greatness.

Hailing from a modest background in a low-key Tier-3 city known for its intense climate, Kumkum has faced numerous challenges. Her father, Anil Mohod, and mother, Rupali Mohod, have been her unwavering supporters, putting their savings and personal belongings aside to provide her with the best archery equipment. Kumkum's story has brought pride to a city that had never witnessed such success in archery, and now, she aims to add an Olympic medal to her already impressive collection.