From a Second-Hand Bow to World Cup Gold: What is Kumkum Mohod’s Next Target?
New Delhi: Until a few months ago, Kumkum Mohod was known primarily within the Indian archery circuit. Today, the 17-year-old from Maharashtra's Amravati district is regarded as one of the country's most promising young archers. She has played a pivotal role in winning a gold medal for India at the Archery World Cup and securing a spot in the national squad for the upcoming Asian Games.
What makes her achievement even more remarkable is that she accomplished this feat using a five-year-old, second-hand bow—the very same equipment she has relied on since taking up the sport in 2018.
At the World Cup in Shanghai, Kumkum joined India's women's recurve team alongside seasoned archers Deepika Kumari and Ankita Bhakat. The trio delivered a stellar performance, ending India's five-year wait for a gold medal in the event.
Kumkum remained calm under pressure
Despite competing against some of the world's best archers, Kumkum remained calm under pressure. She stated that she never focused on her opponents' reputations—including that of the formidable South Korean team faced in the semi-finals. Instead, her entire focus remained on her own performance and her team's strategy.
Match went down to a thrilling shoot-off
Her composure was most evident during the final against China. When the match went down to a thrilling shoot-off and the home crowd was loudly backing the Chinese team, Kumkum shot a crucial 'perfect 10,' helping India clinch the gold medal.
Continued her impressive run
Shortly after returning from Shanghai, she continued her impressive run at the Asian Games selection trials in Sonipat, Haryana. Competing against India's top recurve archers, she was among the standout performers and secured a place in the Indian squad for the Asian Games.
Her dream is to win India's first-ever Olympic gold medal in archery
While the Asian Games are her immediate goal, Kumkum has set her sights even higher. Her ultimate dream is to win India's first-ever Olympic gold medal in archery at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Armed with talent, confidence, and determination, Kumkum Mohod is rapidly emerging as one of the brightest stars in Indian archery.