A video featuring Manu Bhaker’s mother, Sumedha Bhaker, meeting javelin star Neeraj Chopra has sparked widespread interest on social media, with many users humorously speculating that she might be assessing Neeraj as a potential match for her daughter. However, Manu Bhaker’s father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, has responded to the viral memes and speculation, emphasizing that marriage is not on the family’s mind at the moment.
Speaking to Dainik Bhaskar, Ram Kishan Bhaker clarified, “Manu is still very young. She is not even of marriageable age. We are not thinking about her marriage right now.” Addressing the viral video showing his wife and Neeraj Chopra, he added, “Manu’s mother considers Neeraj like her son.”
Neeraj Chopra’s uncle also weighed in on the situation, dismissing the rumors. “Just as the entire country celebrated when Neeraj brought home the medal, everyone will know when he decides to get married,” he remarked.
Both Manu Bhaker and Neeraj Chopra hail from Haryana and have made significant contributions to Indian sports. Manu Bhaker is the most successful Indian woman shooter in history, having recently clinched a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This achievement made her the first Indian woman shooter to reach the Olympic podium.
Neeraj Chopra, who made history by winning India’s first Olympic title in athletics at the Tokyo 2020 Games, secured a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite logging just one valid throw of 89.45 meters in six attempts, Neeraj expressed mixed feelings about his performance, stating, “It was a good throw but I’m not that happy with my performance today. My technique and runway were not that good. I managed only one throw, the rest I fouled.”
The viral video and subsequent discussions have highlighted the immense popularity and respect both athletes command, not just for their achievements but also for their character and the pride they bring to the nation.