Atanu Das Finds Fresh Motivation from India's Rising Archery Stars

Indian recurve archer Atanu Das has stated that the emergence of young talent in the country provides him with renewed motivation to continue competing. In a recent interview, the experienced athlete shared his perspectives on two decades in the sport, fatherhood, balancing personal responsibilities, and his future ambitions.

Two Decades of Experience and New Challenges

Having spent twenty years in competitive archery, Das noted that the strong performances of younger athletes do not signal the end of his career, but rather present a welcome challenge.

• Career Longevity: Das believes he has another decade left to represent India.
• Core Ambitions: He aims to become a world champion, reach world No. 1, and secure titles at the Asian Games and the Olympics.
• Competitive Drive: Seeing new talent perform well pushes him to elevate his own standards.

Balancing Sport and Family Life

Life away from competition has significantly altered Das's outlook. Becoming a parent alongside his wife, Deepika Kumari, introduced new responsibilities that extended beyond training schedules and tournament outcomes.

• Shift in Perspective: Experience has taught him that individual results and medals do not completely alter everyday life.
• Personal Balance: Das emphasizes making time for family, maintaining routines, and enjoying the freedom that his career has provided.
• Mental Well-being: Working with a psychologist and analyzing difficult periods have helped him better manage pressure and setbacks.

Overcoming Setbacks and Looking Ahead

Das missed selection for the Paris 2024 Olympics and dealt with a minor injury that kept him out of the Asian Games, but he returned to the senior Indian team in 2025 following adjustments to his training and coaching approach. He maintains that while winning remains the ultimate goal, he focuses primarily on consistent preparation rather than letting a single outcome define his career.

Practical Implications and Verification

Fans and sports followers can track ongoing domestic tournaments like the Archery Premier League, where Das represents the Chero Archers, and check official updates from national sports bodies to verify athlete schedules and selection announcements.