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'Unfair on her achievements': Internet fumes after Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker asked about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
TL;DR
Manu Bhaker faced criticism online after being asked about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during an NRAI event, which shifted focus from her achievements. She emphasized the importance of mentorship and environment in sports.
Key points
- Manu Bhaker criticized for focus shift during NRAI event
- Question about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi sparked online debate
- Bhaker emphasized mentorship and environment over age
Mentioned in this story
Manu BhakerVaibhav SooryavanshiNational Rifle Association of India
NEW DELHI: An interaction at the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) 75th anniversary event in Delhi has sparked debate online after Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker was asked about teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The exchange, intended as a cross-sport reference between two young Indian sporting names, quickly shifted focus away from the shooter’s own achievements, triggering criticism on social media about misplaced framing of the question.
When asked about the 15-year-old cricketing sensation Sooryavanshi, Bhaker, however, responded thoughtfully, stressing guidance and environment over age.
She said: "I would say that if the mentorship is good, the company around him is good, and the people around are good, then age is just a number. And there is no age for talent."
"Great things happen at 60, they happen at six. So if the people around him mentor him well and guide him properly, then I am sure he will be the next big star," the 24-year-old explained, highlighting the importance of support systems for young athletes transitioning into elite sport discussions.
However, the framing of the question drew sharp reactions online, with many arguing that it sidelined Bhaker’s own Olympic success.
Prominent social media figure and former KKR team director Joy Bhattacharjya wrote: "Folks, she is an Olympic medallist. To ask her what she thinks of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is unfair to her achievements and her sport. Cricket anyway is the ruling passion of the country; your sports editors do not need another celebrity quote to spin a headline on Sooryavanshi. Optionally, next time ask Vaibhav Sooryavanshi about Manu Bhaker and see the looks you get."
— joybhattacharj (@joybhattacharj)
Other social media users also echoed similar sentiments, noting how athletes from non-cricket sports are often pulled into cricket-centric narratives, especially in headline-driven coverage cycles.
— TheKhelIndia (@TheKhelIndia)
— OpJakharBeyoung (@OpJakharBeyoung)
— CricketopiaCom (@CricketopiaCom)
Q&A
Why did Manu Bhaker receive criticism after the NRAI event?
Manu Bhaker was criticized for being asked about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, which detracted attention from her own accomplishments.
What did Manu Bhaker say about age and talent during the event?
She stated that with good mentorship and environment, age is just a number and talent knows no age.
Who is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and why was he mentioned?
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a 15-year-old cricket sensation whose mention during the event sparked debate about cross-sport comparisons.