Archery: Jharkhand Star Komalika Bari Eyes Asian Games Push Through Trials After KITG 2026 Success

Jharkhand archer Komalika Bari capped off an impressive campaign at the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026, returning with three medals, including two golds, for Jharkhand in recurve archery but the young archer's biggest takeaway wasn't the podium - it was the pursuit of improvement.

In an exclusive interaction with myKhel, Komalika offered a candid assessment of her performance, her team's success, and the road ahead - one that is driven as much by self-belief as by ambition.

"It Feels Good, But We Are Not Satisfied"

Despite finishing as one of the standout performers of the Games, Komalika was far from content. "Overall experience was good... our women's team was a winner. It feels good that we are taking the trophy along with the medal."

But satisfaction, she made it clear, is not part of her mindset. "We won't be satisfied... we didn't play that well. We could have done better, so we have to work on that."

For an athlete who has already achieved international success, that relentless self-criticism reflects the mentality required at the highest level.

Mixed Team Gold and a Partnership Built on Trust

One of Komolika's highlights at KITG 2026 was her gold medal in the mixed team event, where she partnered with a younger teammate, Krishna Pingua, who was part of the gold medal winning Jharkhand men's team which pipped Odisha in a tense final, which went down to the shootoffs to decide the winners.

The chemistry, she explained, came naturally. "It was good in the mixed event. Krishna is very young and he talks to me very well... he didn't take pressure and played very well."

The relaxed atmosphere, combined with mutual support, played a key role in their success. "The atmosphere was very enjoyable... we enjoyed the mixed team the most," she added.

Team Before Individual: "No One Can Do It Alone"

Komalika repeatedly stressed the importance of team dynamics, even in a sport often seen as individual. Reflecting on moments where results didn't go their way, she remained grounded.

"A team is a full team. No one can do it individually... we supported each other a lot," Komalika stated.

She also acknowledged the role of emerging talent within the squad. "There were many new girls, so it was good to play with them."

Rising Rivalries: Odisha Closing the Gap

Looking ahead, Komalika expects the competition to intensify - particularly from Odisha, which is rapidly strengthening its archery ecosystem.

"There are new archers in Odisha... they have opened a new academy, so they are performing very well."

"In the coming days, I think they will be stronger." The growing rivalry between states is a positive sign for Indian archery, pushing athletes to raise their standards.

Asian Games 2026 in Focus

With a crucial year ahead, Komolika's focus has already shifted to the next big goal - the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya Japan later this year. "I have to participate in all the trials and perform well so that we can move forward."

Her approach remains simple - earn her place, perform consistently, and keep improving.

"I Am My Own Idol"

Perhaps the most striking moment of the interaction came when Komalika was asked about her sporting idols. Her answer reflected both confidence and evolution.

"In the beginning, of course, we came after seeing Deepika... but as we are growing, I feel we are no less than anyone."

"So, I am my own idol."

It is a statement that captures the transition from inspiration to self-belief - a hallmark of athletes stepping into their prime.

The Need for Recognition and Support

While acknowledging the growth of the sport, Komalika highlighted the importance of financial backing and exposure. "When you get recognition, you get sponsors... which a player needs."

She pointed to the Archery Premier League as a crucial avenue for support. The first edition of the league, backed by the national federation i.e. the Archery Association of India, was held last year. "When we work so hard, we should get a return... the league (PWL) supports players financially."

Having missed the inaugural edition, she is keen to be part of that ecosystem. "Yes, definitely," she said when asked about playing in APL in the future.

Komalika Bari's three-medal haul at KITG 2026 reinforces her status as one of India's brightest archery prospects. But beyond the medals, it is her mindset - restless, self-driven, and grounded - that stands out.