Ever since her father put forward the idea of shooting to her, Rajkumari Rathore has done her best to turn it into reality. The shooter based in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, has been carrying the craft for almost two decades.
She was recently presented the Arjuna Award for her dedication and contribution towards the sport. “It is a wonderful feeling getting the award,” Rajkumari said. “When I was a kid, I never thought that I would take up this sport. My father said you can take up the sport and represent the Army. Then I thought about it and found the sport quite unique and decided to make a career out of it,” the eight-time national champion revealed.
Rajkumari started shooting in 1995, representing the Army. She used to represent the infantry team in various competitions.
Behind her success lies her family and friends, who have always supported the shooter in her endeavour. “My coaches in the Army, my parents and my in-laws have wholeheartedly supported me.”
Rajkumari got married in 2007 and was blessed with a daughter (Sanskruti). She manages to balance her family life and career but admits it is tough, especially training and travelling.
“Post marriage, I had to quit the Army team and I started representing the state (MP) after that. At home, I am not able to train at all. If there is any camp, I go for the camp. If there is any tournament coming up I go to Bhopal and train out there.”
Despite her success, her husband, Deepak Rathore, a government employee, says she has always kept her feet firmly on the ground.
“She is down to earth. She gets along very well with everyone in the family. When she is at home she forgets about everything else and takes care of the family,” Deepak said.
Rajkumari revealed that she looks up to former world No 1 in 10m Air Rifle, Anjali Bhagwat, as her inspiration. “I’m a big fan of Anjali. I idolise her. She has always been very supportive. And also, I have a very good friend Aneesha Sayed, who has encouraged me. We train together during camps and competitions,” she said.
Like every sportsperson, Rajkumari has had ups and downs in her career. With a happy tone, she recollects the moment when she won the Commonwealth gold and silver in 2002.
“I won gold and silver in the Commonwealth Games. I remember that feat dearly. Because it was a very big competition for me, I will never forget that moment.”
She has had her share of setbacks as well and with a tinge of regret says she felt heart-broken when she missed Olympic qualification by one point in the 2012 Asian Championship.
Rajkumari wants to make up for it by doing well in the Asian and Commonwealth Games, and the World Cup and World Championships next year.